Obverse

Reverse

10 Yen

Japan · 1959-1989 (Showa Era Years 34 to 64)

Japanese bronze coin featuring the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall on the obverse and a large numeral 10 surrounded by an evergreen wreath on the reverse.

Country: Japan
Year: 1959-1989 (Showa Era Years 34 to 64)
Denomination: 10 Yen
Metal: Bronze (95% copper, 4% tin, 1% zinc)
Grade: Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated

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

Japanese bronze coin featuring the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall on the obverse and a large numeral 10 surrounded by an evergreen wreath on the reverse.

Historical significance

Introduced in 1951, the current design features the famous Phoenix Hall of the Byodo-in Buddhist temple in Uji, Kyoto, which is also depicted on the 10,000 yen bank note. This type is extremely common in Japanese circulation.

Obverse (front)

Features the Ho-odo (Phoenix Hall) of Byodo-in temple, surrounded by Japanese text 'Nihon Koku' (Japan) at the top and '10 Yen' at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

Features a large numeral '10' with Japanese text 'Juu-en' (10 Yen) and the year of reign below, surrounded by a laurel wreath.

Estimated value

$0.15 - $2.00 depending on condition

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade, presence of original mint luster, and specific year of the Showa Emperor's reign.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated

Mintage & rarity

Very high mintage, common. Certain years (like Showa 33, which has a different edge) or specific early/late years can be scarcer, but standard years are readily available.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits are virtually nonexistent due to the low face value and massive production quantities.

Notable varieties & errors

Distinction between the reeded edge variety (1951-1958) and the plain edge variety (1959-1989).

Similar coins

Earlier Japanese 10 Yen coins (Reed edge variant minted 1951-1958).

Care & preservation

Store in a dry environment in a 2x2 cardboard flip or plastic holder. Avoid harsh cleaning or wiping to preserve the original bronze luster and value.