Cho–gin, Tenpō Era, Rare Silver Currency (Hartill 9.50)

This large, 158 gram piece of silver is a rare form of Japanese currency called cho-gin (丁銀). Similar to the smaller mameita-gin, these chunks of silver were stamped with various auspicious symbols that promoted wealth and fortune. Daikoku, the god of wealth, was commonly seen on Japanese silver currency, and his form is partially visible on both sides of the center of this cho-gin.

The piece is also stamped with the character "保" (po) on both ends, which is to signify that it was made during the Tenpō Era (1837 to 1858) in the city of Edo, now known as Tokyo. The silver content is approximately 26% and the type number is Hartill 9.50, referring to an entry in numismatist David Hartill's catalogue titled Early Japanese Coins.

All purchases include a Certificate of Authenticity. You will receive the exact items shown in the product photos above.