Description
Japan, Manen (1860-1867), gold Oban, c. 1860-1862, Noshi pattern, four Kiri crest stamps, ink inscription: value and Goto family seal. Rev. Kiri crest, framed Kiri crest, signature and mint masters stamps, 135 x 81mm, 113.21g (JNDA 09-11; JC 02-11; J&V A7; KM C24a.2; Fr. 7).
Extremely Fine, small adhesive tape marks to the reverse, minor flaking to the ink, script well preserved. Mintage of only 17,097 pieces.
This beautiful piece used to be the largest gold coin of its time. Obans were minted as rewards for the Samurai who had achieved outstanding military victories in battle. They were also used as gifts to the Royal Court. The surface of this Oban is hammered in Noshi pattern resembling dried and stretched abalone of the past. The Noshi decorative wrapping was used as a ceremonial gift for good luck since abalone is used to wish longevity. These substantial pieces were minted for only a couple of years during Manen Era and have a very low mintage. A lot of the value of the Oban comes from the preservation of the ink – the better preserved, the more valuable it is. The ink is very fragile, so if damaged, the owner would bring it to a member of the Goto family to rewrite it over the original ink.
Ex. Herman Selig collection.
