About Japan – A journey into diversity and fascination

Japan, this unique island nation in East Asia, is famous worldwide for its rich cultural history, groundbreaking technological achievements and breathtaking natural wonders. The lively capital Tokyo is one of the most densely populated urban centers in the world. With a population of around 125.327 million people (as of June 2023), Japan is a mosaic of diverse cultural influences.

Tradition and modernity in harmony

The Japanese are known worldwide for their discipline and respectful politeness. Despite advanced technology, they maintain their ancient traditions and customs. This combination of past and future shapes Japanese culture. She places great emphasis on respect, group harmony and the concept of “wa” (harmony).

Cultural and culinary delights

Japan offers a wide range of cultural and culinary delights. These include ancient temples such as Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto and Todai-ji in Nara. In contrast are the busy streets of Tokyo’s Shibuya district and the nighttime glow of the neon lights in Shinjuku. Japanese cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, sushi, ramen and exquisite Kaiseki dishes. In addition, traditional tea ceremonies and regional specialties such as Kobe beef and okonomiyaki from Hiroshima are a must for every visitor.

Technological advancement and artistic expression

Japan leads in areas such as robotics, electronics and bullet trains. The Shinkansen reaches top speeds of 320 kilometers per hour. Art and culture are evident in Japan’s vibrant pop culture, including anime and manga, which influence global trends.

Natural wonders and traditional practices

Japanese nature offers a variety of wonders, including Mount Fuji, spring cherry blossoms, and vibrant fall foliage. Those who want to immerse themselves in Japanese traditions can do so during Hanami season or experience the tranquility of Zen meditation in a traditional temple. Hot springs (onsen) offer relaxation and recreation.

Japan offers an unforgettable experience for any traveler who wants to gain insight into a vibrant and fascinating culture.

Oban (a historical large-sized Japanese gold coin) (大判)

An Oban is a large, oval gold coin produced in Japan after the 16th century. Originally, Oban coins were irregularly shaped and made from unworked gold by hammering or rolling. However, it is believed that the standardized Oban gold coins were first produced in 1588 by the Goto family, well-known metal workers in Kyoto, on behalf of Hideyoshi. The Goto family continued to produce Oban coins under the patronage of influential figures until 1862. While the standard weight, known as “ryome,” remained constant at 10 ryo (equivalent to about 165 g or 44 monme) until 1860, the gold content, measured in carats, fluctuated over time. Unlike the earlier smaller Japanese oval gold coin Koban, the value of the Oban was not officially set, but was based on the market price of the gold contained in the coin. However, there was a brief period during the Edo period when an official award existed.

Varieties of Japanese Oban:

Yuzuriha-kin (mumei-obankin): Refers to Oban coins produced in the second half of the 16th century before standardization. These coins were unsigned large gold plates.

Tensho-Oban: Was made between 1588 and 1612. Tensho-hishi-Oban featured a diamond-shaped paulownia seal on the surface, with the weight adjusted by submerged gold. The Tensho-naga oban was longer than the regular Tensho oban and was considered the largest gold coin in the world until the minting of the Vienna Philharmonic gold coin weighing 1,000 ounces in 2004.

Daibutsu-Oban (giant Buddha statue Oban): Supposedly minted by Hideyori Toyotomi to fund the reconstruction of the Daibutsu-den (Great Buddha Hall) at Hoko-ji Temple in Kyoto. This coin also has features of the Keicho-Oban-kin.

Keicho-Oban: Minted during the Keicho era (around 1601) until the Enpo era (around 1673). Keicho-sasagaki-Oban, an early form of Keicho-Oban-kin, featured a “kao” (written seal mark) in India ink resembling the shape of a bamboo leaf.

Meireki-Oban: Believed to have been coined in Edo after the Great Fire in Meireki. The carat content of Meireki-Oban was lower than other Keicho-Oban coins.

Genroku-Oban: Coined from 1695 to 1716, these coins bore an engraved mark of “元” (Gen), representing the name of the period, on the backside.

Kyoho-Oban: Minted from 1725 to 1837, these coins had an official price stipulation of 1 coin being equal to 7 Ryo 2Bu.

Tenpo-Oban: Coined from 1838 to 1860, Tenpo-Oban-kin closely resembled Kyoho-Oban-kin, with a slightly lower carat content.

Manen Oban: Coined from 1860 to 1862, Manen Oban had a ryome weight of approximately 112g. Two types existed, differentiated by their surfaces: “tagane-uchi” (nicking with a cold chisel)

Standard design

After the Keicho era, Oban coins were marked with four seal marks, known as “gosan no kiri,” which were placed at the four corners within a circular frame. On the surface of the coin, the characters “拾両後藤 (Ju-ryo Goto)” and the “Kao” character of the Goto family were written in ink. On the reverse side, from top to bottom, was the period seal (exclusive to Genroku-Oban-kin), “Gosan-hadaka-kirimon-kokuin” (representing five and three simple engraved paulownia designs), an engraved mark “Gosan no kiri” in a circular frame with tortoise shell, the Kao mark of the Goto family in a circular frame, and three “zanin-kokuin” (engraved marks for hereditary officials of Kinza and Ginza during the Edo period) on the left.

It is important to note that the face value of 10 ryo was not the actual value of the currency, but rather served as a unit of weight for the coin. In cases where the weight was less than 10 ryo, such as Manen-Oban, it was still reported as 10 ryo.

Japanese Oban 2021 – A Golden Tribute

Auction success and historical background

During an auction in April 2021, an exceptional Japanese Hishi Oban found a buyer for a significant $1.92 million. Paying homage to the rare Tensho era, which has its origins in 1588, this stunning 1-ounce gold coin, boasting a purity of 0.9999, exudes both history and luxury. Remarkably, there are only six original copies to be discovered in institutions today.

Detailed embossing

The obverse of this Oban coin features three diamond-shaped Kiri stamps, skillfully combined with an ink signature. Looking at the reverse, one is greeted by the original signature motif as well as an additional gold stopper, which was carefully inserted to ensure the coin’s prescribed weight. What is special about this commemorative edition is that it highlights the unique patina of the original coin.

Technical details

• Weight: 1 ounce
• Purity: 0.9999
• Limited edition: 5000 pieces
• Dimensions: 50mm x 30mm x 1.37mm

Each of these coins is lovingly presented in an original case and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

Significance and value for collectors

Japanese gold commemorative coins represent an impressive symbiosis of history, craftsmanship and investment. Through their deep cultural relevance, masterful craftsmanship, limited quantities and global appeal, they capture the hearts of collectors and investors alike. Whether the goal is to appreciate stunning aesthetics, preserve a historical relic, or make a wise investment, these coins have firmly established their place in the global numismatic landscape.