1970 Osaka Expo 100 Yen
Japan
1970
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Specifications
| Country | Japan |
| Years Minted | 1970 |
| Composition | 72% copper, 18% nickel, 10% zinc |
| Weight | 4.8 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Reeded |
Design
Obverse
Features the chrysanthemum crest and the year of issue.
Reverse
Depicts the Expo '70 emblem and the denomination.
History & Notable Facts
The 1970 Osaka Expo 100 Yen coin was one of the first Japanese issues to feature a thematic design for a global event, specifically the Expo's symbolic tower and mascots.
That design, etched on copper-nickel planchets, marked a shift from standard currency to something more promotional. Minted in Osaka, it circulated widely during the event, which drew millions of visitors. We don't know the exact mintage figures; records from that era can be spotty.
The coin's edge is reeded, a practical choice to deter counterfeiting. As for its role in numismatics, it helped spark interest among Japanese collectors, though that's about as exciting as it gets.
Some might say it was overproduced, turning a memento into pocket change.
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