Coin Japan 1 Bu Ban Kin - H?ei - Edo period - 1710-1714 - Gold

Remarks:

Slight signs of wear.

This coin is a H?ei Ichibu-ban-kin, a one Bu coin, issued during the Edo period in Japan, specifically during the H?ei era, between 1710 and 1713. The coin was produced under the authority of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The H?ei Ichibu-ban-kin is minted from an alloy of gold and silver. The average gold content in the alloy is approximately 83 to 85%. The coin has a nominal value of 1 Bu, and in the Tokugawa monetary system, 4 Bu were equivalent to 1 Ry?.

The coin is rectangular in shape and its manufacture involves a casting process followed by punching. Its standard weight is approximately 2.33 grams, which corresponds to the indicated weight. The edge of the coin is irregular.

It is important to note that this coin should not be confused with the Ichishu (1 Shu), which are lighter with a weight of approximately 2.2 grams. The H?ei Ichibu-ban-kin has a smaller module than the Bu issued later.

Numismatic Description

The H?ei Ichibu-ban-kin is a small rectangular gold coin, minted in the early 18th century during the H?ei era.

The obverse features the vertical characters ?? (H?ei) and ?? (1 Bu), accompanied by official stamps certifying monetary control. The inscriptions are clear but may exhibit a slight offset due to the artisanal casting process.

The reverse is generally smooth, sometimes marked with slight traces related to the manufacturing process. The edges are irregular, typical of Edo coins that were cast then adjusted, and not mechanically struck like modern Western coins.

Historical Context

The H?ei era (1704?1711) immediately follows the Genroku period and corresponds to a phase of significant monetary adjustment.

After the devaluations of the late 17th century:

• The shogunate attempts to stabilize the currency

• Reforms are implemented to restore confidence

• The balance between gold and silver is partially corrected

The H?ei Ichibu-ban-kin represents an intermediate phase between the Genroku devaluations and the later Ky?h? reforms (1716).

This period is also marked by:

• Intense economic activity in Edo and Osaka

• Budgetary tensions of the Tokugawa government

• Constant adaptation of the Japanese trimetallic system