Japan 10 Yen (Showa period / Byodoin Phoenix Hall)

Japan · Showa 30 (1955)

A bronze Japanese 10-yen coin featuring the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin Temple on one side and a large numeric value with a laurel wreath on the other.

Country: Japan
Year: Showa 30 (1955)
Denomination: 10 Yen
Metal: Bronze (95% Copper, 4-5% Zinc, 1-0% 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 Japanese 10-yen coin featuring the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin Temple on one side and a large numeric value with a laurel wreath on the other.

Historical significance

Issued during the post-WWII economic recovery of Japan under Emperor Hirohito (Showa era). The Byodoin Temple depicted is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Uji, Kyoto.

Obverse (front)

Features the Hoo-do (Phoenix Hall) of Byodoin Temple, surrounded by the country name 'Nippon-koku' (State of Japan) at the top and the denomination '10 Yen' at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

Features a large numeric '10' surrounded by an evergreen laurel wreath, with the date 'Showa 30th year' (1955) written in Japanese kanji characters below the number.

Estimated value

$1 - $5 in circulated condition, up to $15+ in uncirculated condition

What drives this coin's value

Overall condition/grade, original mint luster, absence of corrosion or spots on the bronze composition, and specific year dates (key dates vs common years).

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS) - details are very sharp with minimal wear visible.

Mintage & rarity

Common circulation coin, though high grades or specific years (like Showa 33) can carry premiums

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight (4.5g) and diameter (23.5mm) accurately. Counterfeits are rare for standard circulation Japanese coins due to low face value.

Notable varieties & errors

Early issues feature a plain edge, while later issues transitioned to a reeded edge.

Similar coins

Other Japanese 10 Yen coins from different years of the Showa, Heisei, or Reiwa eras.

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place inside a PVC-free flip or capsule. Do not clean or polish the coin, as this damages its natural patina and significantly reduces its collector value.