Wadō Kaichin
和同開珎（wadō kaichin）
- Series
- Ancient coinage (the twelve imperial coins)
- Denomination
- 1 mon
- Period
- Issued 708 (Wadō 1)
Updated: 2026-09-02
Specifications (as confirmed)
| Item | Value | Type | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issue (catalog) | 銀銭708年5月・銅銭708年8月 | Catalog value | [1] |
FACTThe silver issue appeared in the 5th month of 708 and the copper issue in the 8th month; use of the silver coin was banned in 710 (museum catalog).[1]
FACTThe state issued it to circulate money nationwide, paying wages and materials for building the Heijō capital; policies promoting use — ranks for hoarders, tax payment in coin, severe penalties for private minting — are recorded (catalog).[1]
Historical Context
FACTIt followed the standard of the Tang Kaiyuan Tongbao (621) and circulated mainly in the capital region (catalog).[2]
Visual Identification
Varieties & Attribution
FACTTwo types: silver (5th month of 708) and copper (8th month); use of the silver coin was banned in 710.[1]
Manufacturing
FACTEighth-century molds survive; the square hole is said to have let a square rod hold coins while their edges were filed (catalog).[1]
Authentication Cautions
FACTPrivate minting was a grave crime from the outset (catalog). Modern buyers must screen for imitations; no single feature proves authenticity.[1]
Terminology (JA/EN)
INTERPRETATIONThe reading of 開珎 (kaichin vs. kaihō) has long been debated; we do not settle it.
Open Items
INTERPRETATIONSpecifications not stated here (weight, fineness, mintage, etc.) are not yet confirmed in the sources consulted. They will be added as they are confirmed.
Auction Records
No auction records confirmed for this exact type yet. Prices for the broader category are not shown as this type's prices. Confirmed records will be listed here.
References
- [1]「貨幣博物館 常設展示図録（和同開珎）」（日本銀行金融研究所 貨幣博物館） — https://www.imes.boj.or.jp/cm/collection/tenjizuroku/mod/book/pageindices/index18.html（accessed: 2026-09-02）
- [2]「貨幣博物館 常設展示図録（古代銭貨の移り変わり）」（日本銀行金融研究所 貨幣博物館） — https://www.imes.boj.or.jp/cm/collection/tenjizuroku/mod/book/pageindices/index21.html（accessed: 2026-09-02）