20 Yen - Meiji 30-45 (1897-1912) front 20 Yen - Meiji 30-45 (1897-1912) back
20 Yen - Meiji 30-45 (1897-1912) photo
© Ginza Coins

20 Yen - Meiji

 
Gold (.900) 16.67 g 28.78 mm
Description
Issuer
Japan
Emperor
Meiji (1867-1912)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
30-45 (1897-1912)
Calendar
Japanese - Meiji era
Value
20 Yen (20&nbspJPY)
Currency
Yen (1871-date)
Composition
Gold (.900)
Weight
16.67 g
Diameter
28.78 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#15207
Rarity index
88%

Reverse

Radiant sun in flower cartouche surrounded by text, separated by little Paulownia Flower Seals.

Lettering:
年三十四治明 · 本日大
· 圓十二 ·

Translation:
Great Japan · Year 4 of Meiji
· 20 yen ·

Edge

Reeded

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 20 Yen Meiji 30-45 coin is that it was the first coin to feature the image of the Emperor Meiji, who ruled Japan from 1867 to 1912. The coin was minted during his reign and bears his likeness on the obverse side, while the reverse side features the denomination and the Imperial chrysanthemum crest. This coin was a significant departure from previous Japanese coins, which had traditionally featured images of mythical creatures or natural motifs. The introduction of the Emperor's image on the coin symbolized the modernization and westernization of Japan during the Meiji period.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
30 (1897)  1861000 - - - - - -
37 (1904)  2759470 - - - - - -
38 (1905)  1045904 - - - - - -
39 (1906)  1331332 - - - - - -
40 (1907)  817362 - - - - - -
41 (1908)  458082 - - - - - -
42 (1909)  557882 - - - - - -
43 (1910)  2163644 - - - - - -
44 (1911)  1470054 - - - - - -
45 (1912)  1272450 - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for 20 Yen - Meiji 30-45 (1897-1912) coin.