My Fascination with Japanese Yen Coins: Insights and Adventures

Ever since I started collecting coins as a kid, Japanese Yen pieces have held a special fascination for me. There’s something about their artistry and connection to Japan’s history that keeps me coming back. Through years of handling these coins, I’ve picked up some practical knowledge about dating, grading, and the excitement of the hunt that I’d love to share with fellow enthusiasts.

Dating and Identifying Japanese Yen Coins

When I first began with Japanese coins, figuring out their age felt like solving miniature mysteries. Take that “Meiji year 28” mark – it took me ages to realize it meant 1895! That era produced some truly beautiful designs. For newcomers, I’d suggest looking closely at inscriptions or chop marks first. These little details often reveal a coin’s origins better than any reference book, and you don’t need special tools to spot them.

Grading and Valuing Your Collection

Getting comfortable with grading transformed how I value my collection. After countless hours with the NGC World Coin Guide, I noticed patterns: An XF (Extremely Fine) coin might start around $65, but bump up to AU53 (About Uncirculated) and suddenly you’re looking at $90-110. Always check the high points for wear and examine the luster – it makes all the difference. And watch out for fakes! I’ve handled too many Chinese counterfeits, so now I stick to slabbed coins from NGC or PCGS for peace of mind.

Collecting Stories and Market Observations

Oh, the rush of a great find! I’ll never forget metal detecting and uncovering a silver coin that made my heart race – like stumbling upon an Oregon Trail half dollar when you least expect it. When buying, I’ve learned to shop smart. My best score? An MS62 slabbed Yen for $480 at Stack’s Bowers – far better than eBay prices bloated by seller fees. Just remember: buying directly from Japan often means higher prices plus extras like 25% VAT or customs charges.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Collectors

If I could go back and give my younger collector-self some advice, it would be:

• Bookmark NGC’s online resources – they’re perfect for spotting those tiny variations that affect value
• Seek out auction houses before eBay – you’ll find fairer prices and fewer authenticity worries
• Always account for hidden costs like VAT or customs – they add up quicker than you’d think
• Begin with circulated coins to learn the ropes before chasing pricier mint-state pieces

Collecting Japanese Yen has brought me endless joy and surprises. If you’re starting this journey, savor every moment of discovery and share your stories. That shared excitement is what makes our hobby so special.