Keicho gold Koban (Ryo) ND (1601-1695) UNC (Slightly Bent), Kyoto, Suruga, or Edo mint, KM-FR-9.1, Hartill-8.15 (ER*), JNDA 09-13, JC-03-1-1. 72x39mm. 17.69gm. Variety with fine crenulations and no era designator character. Obv. A fan-shaped Kiri crest ate the top, with two Japanese characters (Ichi Ryo) in a panel below, with characters in a second panel for the mint official Mitsutsugu. A second fan-shaped Kiri crest is at the bottom of the obverse / Rev. Paulownia leaf crest of the Goto family, with a single mint official stamp. An amazing example of the first Koban issue, issued by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1601. The surfaces display bright golden mint luster, with only the most minor abrasions, as is usual for the type. The strike is a bit soft in some areas, as normal for these early Kobans, though none of the usual chopmarks--typically ubiquitous on these issues--are present. An exceedingly rare piece in this near-gem condition. Included is the JNDA (Japan Numismatic Dealers Association) certificate of Authenticity #4050.

HID09801242017

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