1895 Japan 10 Sen – Meiji 28, NGC AU53
The 1895 Japan 10 Sen, dated Meiji 28 (明治二十八年), is a classic silver coin from Japan’s Meiji era, issued during the reign of Emperor Mutsuhito. This attractive example has been professionally certified AU53 by NGC, indicating an About Uncirculated coin with much of its original detail and only limited evidence of circulation.
The obverse features the distinctive Japanese dragon within a beaded circle, surrounded by Japanese legends and the denomination “10 SEN.” The reverse displays the 10 Sen denomination within an ornate floral wreath, topped by the Japanese chrysanthemum, an important imperial symbol.
Struck in 80% silver, the coin weighs approximately 2.70 grams, measures 17.6 mm in diameter, and contains approximately 2.16 grams of silver. The 1895 issue had a reported mintage of 13,719,054 pieces.
This example is graded AU53 by NGC. Based on the population information provided, only 3 examples are graded AU53, while 59 examples are graded higher, making this a particularly interesting certified example for collectors.
The Meiji-era 10 Sen series is popular with collectors of Japanese coinage, Asian silver coins, and historical world currency. Its dragon design, silver composition, and connection to Japan’s rapid modernization during the Meiji period make the 1895 10 Sen an appealing addition to any world coin collection.
