Japanese Non-Metal WWII Coin

These Japanese coins produced during late stages of the occupation of Manchuria (northern China) have quite a rare trait—they contained absolutely no metal at all.

By 1944, Japanese metal shortages were so severe that producing even cheaply made aluminum coins became a challenge. This was a particular issue in the puppet state of Manchukuo, otherwise known as the Empire of Manchuria in what is now northern China.

In response, the occupying Japanese forces came up with the novel solution of phasing out metal altogether. These 5 fen and 1 fen coins are made of a red fibrous material similar in weight to cardboard, though they are magnesite-based and very durable. The coins circulated in Manchukuo until the Soviet invasion of Manchuria and the subsequent surrender of Imperial Japan, marking the end of the war and the return of Manchuria to China.

The 5 fen coins may be bought individually or purchased alongside a separately displayed 1 fen coin for a small additional fee. Each coin comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is guaranteed authentic.

The Japanese Empire at its greatest extent in 1942. Manchuria is shown in red in the top left.