1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (new type) ND (720-759) front 1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (new type) ND (720-759) back
1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (new type) ND (720-759) photo
© Ginza Coin Auctions

1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" new type ND

 
Copper 3.75 g 24.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Japan
Empress
Genmei (707-715)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
720-759
Value
1 Mon
Currency
Mon (683-1953)
Composition
Copper
Weight
3.75 g
Diameter
24.5 mm
Shape
Round with a square hole
Technique
Cast
Demonetized
25 November 0987
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#141321
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Plain

Edge

Plain

Comment

It was based on the Chinese Kai Yuan Tong Bao coin from the Tang dynasty.
In 720 Chinese workmen were summoned to the capital of Nara, resulting in the new higher quality Wadōkaichin.
All with open 開.

Interesting fact

The Wadōkaichin coin was introduced in 708 AD and was the first coin to be issued by the Japanese government. It was made of copper and had a round shape with a square hole in the center, which was a unique design at the time. The coin was used for over 300 years and went through several design changes during that period. It's an important part of Japanese history and a valuable collector's item today.