Coin Japan 1 Ichishu-ban-kin - Genroku - Edo period - 1688?1704 - Gold-Silver

Remarks:

Traces d'usure.

This piece is an Ichishu-ban-kin from the Genroku era, issued between 1688 and 1704 during the Edo period in Japan. It is struck from an alloy of gold and silver, with a fineness of approximately 560? gold, the remainder being primarily silver (approximately 436?). This composition reflects the monetary reforms undertaken towards the end of the Genroku era.

The coin has a face value of 1 Shu, an integral part of the Tokugawa monetary system where 1 Ry? was equivalent to 4 Bu or 16 Shu. It was issued under the authority of the Tokugawa shogunate. Its weight is approximately 2.21 grams, which corresponds to the standard weight of this currency.

Rectangular in shape, this coin was made by casting and then stamped to certify its value and authenticity. The obverse of the coin features the vertical characters ?? (Genroku) and ?? (1 Shu). These inscriptions, attesting to the period of issue and value, may exhibit slight off-centering due to the artisanal nature of the production. The reverse is generally smooth, possibly showing residual marks from the casting process. The edge is irregular, a direct consequence of the manufacturing method used.