Obverse

Reverse

10 Yen

Japan · 1951-present (Showa period onwards)

A bronze coin featuring the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall on one side and a numerical denomination surrounded by a laurel wreath on the other.

Country: Japan
Year: 1951-present (Showa period onwards)
Denomination: 10 Yen
Metal: 95% copper, 4% zinc, 1% tin

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 bronze coin featuring the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall on one side and a numerical denomination surrounded by a laurel wreath on the other.

Historical significance

Introduced in 1951, this iconic design depicts the Phoenix Hall of the Byodo-in Buddhist temple in Uji, Kyoto. It has remained a staple of Japanese daily commerce for over seven decades.

Obverse (front)

Features the Phoenix Hall of Byodo-in temple, encircled by the Japanese country name '日本国' (Japan) at the top and the denomination '十円' (10 Yen) at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

Features a large numeral '10' at the top, the year of issue in Japanese era format below it, surrounded by an open laurel wreath tied with a ribbon at the bottom.

Estimated value

$1-$3 in circulated condition, up to $10-$25 in uncirculated (Mint State) condition.

What drives this coin's value

Condition, specific key dates (such as early Showa years like Showa 26/1951 or Showa 33/1958 without reeded edges), and absence of environmental damage or cleaning.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS) based on the crisp details and minimal wear.

Mintage & rarity

Very common, with tens to hundreds of millions minted annually depending on the specific year.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Due to their low face value and massive mintage, counterfeiting is extremely rare. Standard weight and composition verification are usually sufficient.

Notable varieties & errors

The 'Showa 33' (1958) transition from reeded edge to plain edge is a notable collectible variety.

Similar coins

Other Japanese 10 Yen coins from different eras, or modern bronze coins from other Asian nations.

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry environment using inert coin flips or holders. Avoid cleaning or touching the coin directly with bare fingers to preserve its original surface and luster.