--- title: "The Issuance Background and Identification Features of the Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession" url: "https://ittendo.com/en/article/news-jp-1415-5764aea9" site: "ITTENDO" type: "article" category: "記念貨幣" published: "2026-10-16T22:38:01Z" source: "一点堂編集部" source_url: "https://ittendo.com/" lang: "en" --- # The Issuance Background and Identification Features of the Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession > The commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession, issued in 1990, include a ¥100,000 gold coin and a ¥500 cupronickel coin. They were also issued in 2019, and are characterized by their limited issuance. For identification, factors such as weight, inscriptions, and accompanying items are crucial; particularly the ¥100,000 gold coin, which comes with a special case and certificate. The commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession, issued in 1990, include a ¥100,000 gold coin and a ¥500 cupronickel coin. We will explore the issuance background and features in detail. --- ## Overview of the Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession The commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession were issued in 1990 (Heisei 2) to commemorate the enthronement of the Emperor at the time. These coins were issued as a decision by the government, following a Cabinet decision, to allow the people of Japan to celebrate this joyous event together. The issued commemorative coins include a ¥100,000 gold coin and a ¥500 cupronickel coin. These coins symbolize the historical transition from the Shōwa to the Heisei era. Notably, the ¥100,000 gold coin features a phoenix—a symbol of the imperial family—amidst auspicious clouds on the obverse, and the chrysanthemum emblem with finely engraved "壱拾萬圓" on the reverse. These designs are crafted as solemn motifs befitting the Emperor's accession, showcasing the highest standards of engraving and manufacturing techniques from the Mint Bureau. Beyond currency, these commemorative coins have significant meaning and captured public interest at the peak of the bubble economy. The coins' artistic value is influenced not only by their rarity but also by the quality of their design and manufacturing techniques. For more details on the commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession, please see [Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession](/coinpedia/kinen-004-tenno-gosokui). ## Background of the Issuance of the Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession In 2019 (Reiwa 1), commemorative coins were issued to celebrate the Emperor's accession. These commemorative coins are notably characterized by their limited issuance compared to the 2 million ¥100,000 gold coins issued for the Heisei period. Specifically, the issuance of gold coins was limited to 50,000, which is only one-fortieth of the Heisei version. This scarcity in issuance is considered a factor that led to application rates reaching dozens of times. The ¥500 coin also experienced a similar reduction, decreasing from 30 million in the Heisei version to 5 million, enhancing the rarity of the Reiwa version. The design of the Reiwa ¥10,000 gold coin, like the Heisei version, features a phoenix and auspicious clouds, but with a modern and sophisticated arrangement. This design is considered suitable for the dawning of a new era. The limited issuance of these coins contributes to their high market value, attracting the interest of collectors. The issuance of the commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession holds a distinguished place in the history of commemorative coin issuance. Related past coins such as the [Commemorative Coins for the 60th Year of the Emperor's Reign](/coinpedia/kinen-003-tenno-60) and the [Commemorative Coins for the Crown Prince's Wedding](/coinpedia/kinen-008-kotaishi-gokon) provide deeper insights into their background and significance. ## Identification Features of the Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession The commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession have several features that aid identification. Understanding these features helps determine the authenticity and value of the coins. Key aspects include the design, inscriptions, weight, fineness, and dimensions. For high-value commemorative coins such as the ¥100,000 and ¥10,000 gold coins, the inclusion of a leather case and certificate issued by the Mint Bureau in a special acrylic capsule is strong evidence of authenticity. It is crucial to verify that these accessories are complete. Furthermore, the weight and diameter of the coins are basic checkpoints for identification. Even slight discrepancies should raise suspicion of counterfeit. Additionally, it is recommended to closely inspect the sharpness of the engraving, details, and color. Regarding the ¥500 coin, whether from the Heisei or Reiwa version, it is rare for the trade price to greatly exceed the face value. They typically circulate at a price range around 2,000 yen above face value. For detailed price trends, check the [Market Chart for Price Trends](/market/index). In addition to these identification clues, purchasing from reliable coin dealers or major auction houses with specialized knowledge ensures safety. This helps verify the authenticity of commemorative coins. Furthermore, referring to the [Guide to Coin Varieties and Classification](/guide/varieties) enriches your understanding of the classification of coins in general. ## Significance as the Imperial Family Coin Trilogy The commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession hold collection value, not only independently but also when combined with other related imperial family commemorative coins, reinforcing their presence. This combination is referred to as the "Imperial Family Coin Trilogy," consisting of the Commemorative Gold Coin for the 60th Year of the Shōwa Emperor's Reign (1986), the Commemorative Gold Coin for the Enthronement of the Current Emperor (1990), and the Commemorative Gold Coin for the Emperor's Accession (2019). Collecting these three pieces signifies bringing together Japan's imperial history across the Shōwa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras through coins. This transcends mere coin collecting by offering meaning and a sense of accomplishment as a collection representing modern Japanese history. Consequently, these commemorative coins are valued as special items by collectors who cherish Japanese culture and history. Thus, the Imperial Family Coin Trilogy holds an invaluable position in commemorative coin collecting. Within this series, the [Commemorative Coins for the 60th Year of the Emperor's Reign](/coinpedia/kinen-003-tenno-60) is known as an important coin commemorating the Shōwa Emperor's reign, and understanding the historical background and significance of each coin deepens the collection's appeal. Collecting this trilogy preserves historical events related to the Japanese imperial family and holds cultural value. It offers collectors enjoyment and depth beyond mere investment. Understanding the difference between collection and investment is essential from this perspective. For more information, see [The Difference Between Investment and Collection](/coinpedia/basics-002-invest-vs-collect). Through the Imperial Family Coin Trilogy, collectors can embody modern Japanese history in a tangible form as coins. Understanding and collecting each coin's background and significance provides a unique experience for collectors. ## Storage and Market Records of the Commemorative Coins for the Emperor's Accession Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the visual appeal and artistic value of the commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession over the long term. Gold coins are chemically very stable and are not prone to discoloration, but physical scratches, fingerprints, and internal fogging of the case due to humidity are the greatest threats. Therefore, it is advisable to store them in the dedicated cases and acrylic capsules provided by the Mint Bureau and avoid handling them with bare hands. If removal is necessary, always use specialized gloves. Additionally, maintaining a stable low-humidity environment (40%–50% RH) with consistent temperature is recommended, and using a dehumidifier cabinet is also effective. By adhering to proper storage methods, the brilliance of the gold coins can be preserved for the future. Detailed storage methods can be found in the [Coin Storage and Maintenance Guide](/guide/storage). Concerning market records of the commemorative coins for the Emperor's accession, there are currently no confirmed auction results. For detailed market records, you can check the [Auction History Overview](/auctions) for information.