Obverse

Reverse

10 Sen

10 Sen - Showa

Japan · 1938-1940 (Showa Year 13-15)

A small holed coin featuring a chrysanthemum seal and cherry blossoms on one side, and Japanese kanji lettering surrounding a center hole on the other.

Country: Japan
Year: 1938-1940 (Showa Year 13-15)
Denomination: 10 Sen
Metal: Aluminum-Bronze (90% copper, 10% aluminum)
Grade: Fine to Very Fine (circulated with moderate wear)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified September 18, 2026More japan coins →

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Overview

A small holed coin featuring a chrysanthemum seal and cherry blossoms on one side, and Japanese kanji lettering surrounding a center hole on the other.

Historical significance

Issued by the Empire of Japan during the early part of World War II (Showa period). Aluminum-bronze composition was often used as base metals were diverted for wartime munitions.

Obverse (front)

Features the Imperial Seal of Japan (chrysanthemum flower blossom) at the top, flanked by cherry blossom clusters flanking a central hole.

Reverse (back)

Features the country name (Dai Nippon / Great Japan) and denomination in kanji characters surrounding the central hole, along with the reign year date.

Estimated value

$1 - $10 depending on condition

What drives this coin's value

Condition grade, exact year of issue (Showa reign year), and presence of original luster or toning.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (circulated with moderate wear)

Mintage & rarity

Common to scarce depending on the exact year, millions produced

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight, dimensions, and magnetic properties. These coins are generally common enough that sophisticated counterfeits are rare.

Notable varieties & errors

Varies primarily by the Japanese reign year indicated on the reverse side.

Similar coins

Other Japanese holed sen coins from the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras (such as 5 sen or other 10 sen types).

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place in a PVC-free coin flip or holder. Avoid touching the surface directly with bare fingers to prevent oil transfer and corrosion.

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