Empire of Japan – Year 3 Meiji (1870) – 10 Sen Silver Coin
Metal: Silver (.800)
Weight: 2.57 g
Diameter: Approx. 20 mm
Reference: Y#2 / JNDA 01-23
Condition: AU (About Uncirculated)
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🐉 Numismatic Description
This exceptional 10 Sen silver coin was minted during Year 3 of the Meiji era (1870), a monumental period in Japanese history marking the nation’s dramatic modernization.
🔸 Obverse:
Depicts the Imperial Japanese dragon—a symbol of power and divine protection—encircled by kanji inscriptions that indicate the denomination and year of minting. The artistry of the dragon, with its coiled body and expressive details, showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of early Meiji coinage.
🔸 Reverse:
Features a radiant sunburst at the center, surrounded by intricate botanical motifs including chrysanthemum, Paulownia, and other traditional Japanese flora, tied with a decorative ribbon at the base. The design reflects harmony, imperial authority, and Japan’s reverence for nature.
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🏯 Historical Context
Struck just two years after the dawn of the Meiji era, this coin represents Japan’s transition from the Tokugawa Shogunate’s feudal rule to a centralized imperial government. The Meiji Restoration sparked sweeping reforms, including the adoption of a modern currency system based on the yen and sen.
This 10 Sen piece is among the first decimal silver coin issues of modern Japan, modeled after Western standards but retaining rich Eastern symbolism.
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📦 What’s Included
✅ Certificate of Authenticity & Provenance
✅ Protective numismatic capsule
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💡 Collector’s Note
•Early Meiji silver coins in AU condition are highly collectible and scarce.
•The dragon design was later modified, making these early examples even more sought after.
•A brilliant combination of imperial history, symbolic art, and cross-cultural influence.