Lot 502
Japan, Meiji (1867-1912), copper Pattern Yen, year 3 (1870) - UNIQUE





Ancient, British and World Coins | C24004
Auction: 10 July 2024 at 10:00 BST
Description
Japan, Meiji (1867-1912), copper Pattern Yen, year 3 - 1870, Royal Mint, plain edge (KM Pn16 var.; JNDA - unlisted; JC - unlisted). In NGC holder graded MS 62 BN (6770024-001). Unique in NGC and PCGS census and on Coin Archives. This is the only copper Yen Pattern to come to the market, previously sold pieces were made of silver, white metal and tin. Phenomenally rare find with wonderful red flashes of tone.
This copper Pattern represents the first machine-struck Yen of Japan. The Japanese government established the official silver standard in 1870 and this coin was a Pattern for the first silver Yen. Designed by the famous British engraver L. C. Wyon known particularly for his engraving of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee coinage of 1887, these coins were struck at the Royal Mint. A handful of surviving Yen Patterns are known to exist; in silver, white metal and tin respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first copper Pattern Yen to have ever been offered for sale.





