Smart Buying Guide: How to Buy Japan 1870 1 Yen Type 1 圓 銀 Right JNDA 01-9A Without Getting Ripped Off
April 20, 2026Japan 1870 1 Yen Type 1: Silver Content, Mint Marks, and Collector Value
April 20, 2026
The Hidden Treasure in Your Pocket Change
You don’t always need a dealer to find this. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots. The Japan 1870 1 Yen Type 1 圓 銀 Right JNDA 01-9A represents one of the most fascinating opportunities for the dedicated roll hunter and cherry picker. This Meiji-era silver yen, with its distinctive countermark variations, can still be discovered in unexpected places – from estate sales to bulk currency purchases.
Historical Significance
The 1870 1 Yen coin marks a pivotal moment in Japanese monetary history. Following the Meiji Restoration, Japan modernized its currency system, adopting Western-style decimal coinage. The Type 1 圓 銀 (pronounced “en gin”) was the first standardized silver yen, weighing approximately 26.96 grams of .900 fine silver.
What makes this coin particularly interesting for collectors is the countermark system. The Japanese government stamped millions of these coins with the character “銀” (gin, meaning silver) to certify their purity and authenticity. These countermarks were applied at different mint facilities, creating distinct varieties that command vastly different values in today’s market.
Identifying Key Markers
The most critical distinction for cherry pickers is the position of the “銀” countermark. For Type 1 coins, this countermark appears either on the left or right side of the coin’s obverse. The forum discussion clarifies that the “Right” designation specifically refers to coins with the “銀” countermark positioned on the right side.
Additionally, collectors should note the border variations. Some Type 1 coins feature a border design while others lack this element. The combination of countermark position and border presence creates multiple sub-varieties that can significantly impact value.
The Mint Mark Mystery
Perhaps the most valuable insight from the forum discussion concerns the mint locations. Coins with the “銀” countermark on the left were stamped at the Osaka Mint, while those with the countermark on the right came from the Tokyo Mint. This distinction is crucial because the Tokyo Mint produced approximately 1 million of these coins, compared to Osaka’s 10 million production.
This 10:1 production ratio might lead collectors to assume that left-marked coins would be more common in surviving populations. However, the PCGS population reports show 28 examples of the right-marked variety versus 17 of the left-marked variety – an unexpected reversal that suggests the right-marked coins may have been better preserved or are more actively sought by collectors.
Valuation Insights
The forum provides concrete evidence of the value differential. A Type 1 圓 銀 Right coin recently sold at auction for a price “couple times higher” than similar coins without the countermark. Another example, described as VF or XF Details, sold for over $1,000 at a Stephen Album auction.
Currently, a less attractive example is bidding at $160 in a live auction, with expectations that the price will climb higher. This demonstrates that even circulated or damaged examples of the right-marked variety maintain strong collector interest.
Where to Find These Coins
The beauty of hunting for these coins lies in their potential discovery locations. Unlike many rare coins that require specialized dealers, the Japan 1870 1 Yen can still be found in:
- Bulk currency lots from estate sales
- World coin accumulations at flea markets
- Online auction lots that haven’t been properly sorted
- Occasionally, in mixed foreign coin collections
Authentication Tips
When examining potential finds, pay close attention to:
- The position of the “銀” character – right side for the valuable variety
- The overall strike quality and wear patterns typical of 1870s Japanese minting
- The weight (should be approximately 26.96 grams)
- The .900 silver composition, which should give the coin a distinctive appearance
Market Trends and Future Potential
The forum discussion suggests that as more collectors become aware of the “銀” countermark varieties, prices for the right-marked coins could increase substantially. The limited mintage from Tokyo Mint, combined with growing collector interest, creates a compelling investment case.
Conclusion
The Japan 1870 1 Yen Type 1 圓 銀 Right JNDA 01-9A represents an excellent opportunity for the observant collector. With its fascinating historical context, clear identifying markers, and significant value differential between varieties, this coin rewards those who take the time to learn its characteristics. Whether you’re searching through bulk lots at estate sales or carefully examining world coin accumulations, knowing what to look for can turn an ordinary coin hunt into an extraordinary discovery. The combination of historical significance, relative scarcity, and growing collector interest makes this Meiji-era silver yen a worthy target for any serious cherry picker’s attention.
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