Giza Jū: A Distinct and Rare Coin Among Current Coins
The term "Giza Jū" refers to the early 10-yen coins issued from Shōwa 26 (1951) to Shōwa 33 (1958). While these coins feature the same Byōdō-in Hōō-dō (Uji City) design as current 10-yen coins, their most distinguishing feature is the fine serration (jagged edge) on the side (edge). After Shōwa 34 (1959), the serration was removed from the 10-yen coins, so only those from Shōwa 26 to 33 have this feature and are distinguished as "Giza Jū." In Shōwa 26 (1951), Japan was benefiting from the special demand during the Korean War and starting full-scale post-war reconstruction, making this 10-yen coin historically significant as a symbol of Japan's economic restart post-war. Giza Jū remains legal tender and can occasionally be found among your change. To understand the system of modern coins, refer to the Introduction to Modern Gold and Silver Coins (Meiji to Shōwa).
Why Serration Was Removed: Design Change of Shōwa 34
The design change in Shōwa 34 (1959) that removed the serration (jagged edge) on the 10-yen coin had several practical reasons. After the Shōwa 33 issue, the serration on the edge of the 10-yen coin was discontinued. The manufacturing cost and the wear and tear on the molds were also noted as issues. From the Shōwa 34 issue onward, the 10-yen coins have the current specification with a smooth edge. Because of this background, Giza Jū (from Shōwa 26 to 33) was produced only for a brief eight-year period, attracting attention among collectors as "witnesses of the era." To delve deeper into the factors determining coin value, refer to Factors Determining the Value of Old Coins.
Issued Quantities and Rarity by Year: The Discrepancy Across 8 Years
While there are Giza Jū coins from Shōwa 26 to 33, the quantity issued varies significantly by year. The most issued year is Shōwa 27 (1952), with estimates of over hundreds of millions of coins minted. In contrast, the initial year of Shōwa 26 (1951) saw relatively limited production, resulting in a limited number of high-quality specimens. Generally ranking the rarity by year: Shōwa 26 > Shōwa 28 & Shōwa 33 > Shōwa 27 & Shōwa 29–32 (although quality and grade may cause variations). Circulating coins are valued between several tens to several hundreds of yen, but uncirculated coins (MS63 and above) see a significant increase in price. For understanding grading standards, see Grading Standards for Old Coins. Price and auction examples are only listed in market records if the records (including event, lot, source URL, and verification date) are confirmed.
Identification and Evaluation of Giza Jū: Start with the Edge Check
The first step in identifying Giza Jū is checking the edge. Using your fingers or a magnifying glass, observe from the side to confirm if fine serrations are continuously present. From Shōwa 26 to 33, Giza Jū must have these serrations present, whereas coins from Shōwa 34 onward have smooth edges. Evaluation points include four aspects: first, checking for scratches or wear on the fields (flat surfaces); second, assessing the clarity of details on the phoenix or the building; third, verifying the uniformity of the edge serrations (whether they were flattened in circulation); fourth, evaluating the luster (original surface gloss post-minting). Uncirculated coins are in perfect condition across all these points and have not circulated post-minting. Coins used for many years in pockets or wallets often have worn-down serrations, making them smooth.
Price Range Indicators: From Circulating Coins to High-Grade Pieces
The price range for Giza Jū varies greatly by condition and year. Circulating coins (ordinary grade: F to VF) range from 10 to 100 yen, close to the current face value of 10 yen, regardless of the year. For AU (almost uncirculated) coins close to uncirculated condition, Shōwa 26 issues range from 1,000 to 5,000 yen, while Shōwa 27 to 33 issues range from 500 to 2,000 yen. Completely uncirculated coins (equivalent to MS62 to 64) are valued at approximately 5,000 to 30,000 yen for Shōwa 26 issues. High-grade pieces above MS65 can fetch between 50,000 to 150,000 yen or more. Even high-grade Shōwa 28 issues are rare, with MS64 and above trading between 10,000 to 50,000 yen. Though these prices are not exceptionally high in the broader coin market, the value difference in a "current coin" from just a few decades ago is a fascinating fact from both a collection and investment perspective. To understand coin market trends, see Reading Coin Market Cycles.
PCGS & NGC Grading and International Reach of Giza Jū
Recently, more collectors are having their Giza Jū coins graded by third-party organizations like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). These services objectively attest a coin's condition with numeric grades (F12 to MS70) and encase them in slabs to improve protection and marketability. Particularly, PCGS specimens of Shōwa 26 graded MS65 and above are few, attracting attention even in international auctions. The phenomenon of a routine Japanese 10-yen coin being evaluated on a global stage could be considered an ultimate achievement of "Giza Jū Collection." For selection and use of grading services, see the Practical Guide to Coin Grading. For 10 yen gold coins (Meiji-era old coins), compare with Value and Rare Years of 10 Yen Gold Coin.
Discoveries from Wallets and Piggy Banks: The Joy of Collecting Giza Jū
The greatest attraction of collecting Giza Jū is the joy of "discovering treasure in daily life." Giza Jū coins from Shōwa 26 to 33 still circulate as legal tender and can be found in old piggy banks, during clearing of grandparent's belongings, or in old furniture even now. This is a unique appeal of current collections, not found with many other old coins. However, since circulating Giza Jū generally have low value, finding one usually does not constitute a "treasure discovery." The key is the condition. If you happen to find a shiny, unblemished mint-condition specimen, it should be stored in a protective case. The basic principles for preserving value are not to rub, wash, or touch with bare hands. Check Proper Coin Storage Methods for correct storage techniques.
How to Start Collecting Giza Jū: An Introduction to Low-Cost Collection
Collecting Giza Jū is one of the most approachable entry points into coin collecting. Start by gathering circulating specimens from Shōwa 27 to 33 (ranging from several tens to hundreds of yen each), aiming for a "complete 8-year set" by collecting one from each year. This alone allows for a contrast with Edo-period coins, completing a collection themed "10-yen Coins That Moved Post-war Japan." The next step is obtaining Shōwa 26 issues and, ultimately, acquiring one or two high-grade pieces through a step-by-step approach. Compare multiple channels like coin specialty shops, auctions, and flea market apps when choosing where to purchase. Major acquisition sources and tips are discussed in Guide to Coin Acquisition and Purchase Methods. Giza Jū is optimum as the first step into coin collecting due to its low cost and minimal risk of counterfeiting.