Last Tokugawa Coinage Meiji GOLD 2 BU 1868 - 69 1/2 Ryo " Samurai Bar " Nibu Kin
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:10255447 | Certification: Uncertified |
| Composition: Gold | Year: 1868 |
JapanMeiji Era1868-69Gold 2 Bu-Kin "Samurai Bar" (1/2 Ryo).223 Gold, Balance Silver3.05gHartill 8.32b
When the teenaged Meiji came to power in 1867, it was already apparent that neither the Tokugawa Shogunate nor its economy would be viable. Thus began the Meiji Restoration - the deliberate and rapid modernization of Japan, and the overhaul of its economy based on the Yen - initially pegged to the Spanish Dollar. It would not be possible to switch immediately from traditional manufa...cture methods to modern coin machinery, so the Meiji government permitted the coninued manufacture of these 2 bu and silver 1 Shu coins between 1868-69 while the new machinery was being ordered, set up, and employees trained. Thanks to large mintage figures and low gold purity, these remain one of the most popular and affordable of all Japanese gold coins.
When the teenaged Meiji came to power in 1867, it was already apparent that neither the Tokugawa Shogunate nor its economy would be viable. Thus began the Meiji Restoration - the deliberate and rapid modernization of Japan, and the overhaul of its economy based on the Yen - initially pegged to the Spanish Dollar. It would not be possible to switch immediately from traditional manufa...cture methods to modern coin machinery, so the Meiji government permitted the coninued manufacture of these 2 bu and silver 1 Shu coins between 1868-69 while the new machinery was being ordered, set up, and employees trained. Thanks to large mintage figures and low gold purity, these remain one of the most popular and affordable of all Japanese gold coins.
