1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (old type, copper) ND (708-720) front 1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (old type, copper) ND (708-720) back
1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (old type, copper) ND (708-720) photo
© Ginza Coin Auctions

1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" old type, copper ND

 
Copper 3.75 g 24.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Japan
Empress
Genmei (707-715)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
708-720
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
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#141320
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Plain

Edge

Plain

Comment

It was based on the Chinese Kai Yuan Tong Bao coin from the Tang dynasty.
Old type coins made by Japanese had crude flans and workmanship. Made of pure copper.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Standard circulation coin 1 Mon "Wadōkaichin" (old type, copper) ND (708-720) from Japan made of Copper weighing 3.75 g is that it was used as a form of currency in ancient Japan and has a rich history dating back to the 8th century. It was first introduced during the reign of Emperor Shomu and was used until the early 10th century. The coin features an inscription of the Chinese character for "copper" on one side and a square hole in the center of the other side. It was made of copper, which was a valuable resource at the time, and its weight and size varied depending on the period in which it was produced. Despite its small size, this coin played a significant role in the economy of ancient Japan and is now highly sought after by collectors.