My Adventures Collecting Japanese Yen Coins

Lately, I’ve been exploring Japanese Yen coins, and what a journey it’s been! From their fascinating history to today’s collecting scene, I’ve picked up some tips that might help fellow enthusiasts. Let me walk you through what I’ve discovered.

Spotting Dates and Stories

One of my first lessons was decoding dates from inscriptions. I’ll never forget finding a beauty marked Meiji year 28 – that’s 1895 for us Western collectors. Many carry chop marks that whisper tales of their travels through time. When I’m puzzled, focusing on those characters usually cracks the code.

Grading Realities and Value Shifts

When assessing coins, I lean on resources like the NGC World Coin Guide. An XF piece might list around $65, but an AU53 can jump to $90-$110. I once examined a coin that looked undergraded at first glance – turned out to be solid AU material, which really changed its value. Always cross-check varieties on NGCcoin.com under ‘Resources’ – subtle differences can mean big price swings.

Market Tricks and Fake Alerts

Watch out – the hunt has its pitfalls. I’ve seen countless Chinese counterfeits flooding the market lately. My rule? Stick with trusted sellers and skip shady deals. Price variations can shock you too: eBay purchases often pile on fees and VAT. One coin cost me $821 after extra charges! Meanwhile, I grabbed an MS62 for just $480 through Stacks-Bowers. Coins from Japan often carry premium prices, so I’ve found auction houses or local dealers offer better value.

Those Heart-Pounding Finds

Nothing compares to the rush of an unexpected discovery. A friend recently unearthed a Japanese Yen coin with his metal detector – reminded me of when I pulled an Oregon Trail half dollar from the earth. That flash of silver emerging? Pure collector magic. Even slabbed coins with custom NGC labels give me that thrill – I’ve seen some online that add wonderful personality to collections.

Handy Tips From My Experience

Here’s what I’ve learned that might help your collecting:

• Use NGC resources to research varieties – it’s saved me from overpaying for common types
• Try auction houses instead of eBay – you’ll dodge those painful fees and VAT surprises
• Stay sharp with counterfeits – examine details closely and buy from reputable sources
• Share your finds! It’s rewarding to inspire others and see rare pieces
• Mint state coins can be pricey but achievable – patience often finds great deals

Collecting Japanese Yen coins has been such a rich experience, weaving history with the excitement of discovery. If you enjoy coins or precious metals, I’d say give these a try – you might just fall in love with them. Happy hunting!