© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
3 Bu - Ansei Countermarked 8 Reales
1858 year| Silver (.903) | 26.8 g | - |
| Issuer | Japan |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1858 |
| Value | 3 Bu (¾) |
| Currency | Ryō (1595-1874) |
| Composition | Silver (.903) |
| Weight | 26.8 g |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled, Countermarked |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#27223 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
A liberty cap, with rays indicating a passionate expression of freedom
Lettering:
定 分 三 改
8R G 1858 P F 10Ds20Gs
Translation:
Change for 3 Bu Guaranteed
8 Reales 1858 10 Decimes 20 Grams
Comment
After the withdrawl of the unsuccessful Ansei Nishu-gin, trade was continued with an exchange rate of one silver dollar to three Ichibu-gin coins. Since a Mr. Townsend Harris, the first United States Consul General to Japan, wanted to promote trade, he put two proposals to the Shogunate. He suggested that they issue an Ichibu-gin coin by reminting Western coins, which resulted in the Ansei Ichibu-gin. He also suggested that they place a Japanese stamp of value on Mexican silver dollars and make them legal tender in Japan. This proposal was also accepted, resulting in this coin.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 3 Bu - Ansei (Countermarked 8 Reales) 1858 coin from Japan is that it was issued during a time of significant cultural and economic change in the country. The Ansei era, which spanned from 1854 to 1860, saw the opening of Japan's ports to foreign trade and the introduction of Western ideas and technologies, which had a profound impact on Japanese society. The countermarking of the coin with the 8 Reales symbol, which was the standard unit of currency in Mexico at the time, highlights the global connections and economic exchanges that were taking place during this period.
