Coin Japan 1 Shu Khômei Emperor (1846-1867)- ND (1853-1865) - Silver

Size : 15 x 9 mm..

JNDA?09-53

Emperor Komei, whose full name is Komei Tenno, was the 121st Emperor of Japan, reigning from 1846 to 1867. He ruled during a crucial period in Japan's history known as Bakumatsu, characterized by political and social upheaval, as well as the forced opening of Japan to international trade after centuries of isolation.

Emperor Komei opposed the increasing involvement of powerful feudal lords (daimyos) and the Tokugawa shogunate in national affairs, as well as the growing foreign influence. His reign was marked by political tensions and the rise of nationalist sentiment. He passed away in 1867, shortly before the start of the Meiji Restoration, a major event that led to the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the restoration of imperial power in Japan.

The period from 1853 to 1865 in Japan is particularly interesting due to the country's forced opening to foreign trade after centuries of isolation. During this period, known as Bakumatsu, several significant changes took place, including in the monetary domain.

In 1853, United States Commodore Matthew Perry compelled Japan to open its ports to international trade, bringing an end to the era of isolation. Subsequently, Japan faced the need to adjust its monetary system to facilitate trade with foreign powers.

As part of these changes, Japan began issuing rectangular silver coins called "Ichibu Gin" or "Ichibu Sen" starting from 1859. These coins were rectangular in shape and bore inscriptions in kanji. They were produced in response to the growing demand for exchange currency to facilitate trade with foreigners.