The pinnacle of Edo-period Japanese coins, this gold Oban is awe-inspiring due to its impressive size, ornate calligraphy, and exceptional craftmanship.
With a mintage of just over 17,000, these final-issue Man'en (Manen) Oban are quite scarce, especially with original ink. While Oban were not intended for circulation, they are often seen with flaking ink which results in an AU grade by PCGS.
Because ink would flake off even with careful handling, many of these were carefully re-inked. JNDA, the Japanese association that authenticates coins, is able to determine if an Oban has been re-inked or not. The accompanying JNDA Certificate confirms that this example has its original ink.
Man'en Oban weigh approximately 113g and are 135mm tall by 80mm wide. There are two versions, one with machine-made crenellations on the obverse and one with hand-made ones. This example is of the former variety.
Please note that the small white marks are not on the Oban itself, but on the inside film of the holder.
