In a fascinating discovery, over 500,000 rare ceramic coins from World War II were found in Kyoto, Japan, in August 2023.
These coins, often called “phantom coins,” are a window into Japan’s resourcefulness during wartime, when metal shortages forced innovative solutions to keep the economy running.
Why Were Ceramic Coins Created?
During World War II, Japan struggled with severe metal shortages as resources were funneled into military production.
To address this, a company named Shofu Kogyo Co., Ltd. came up with a solution: producing coins made of ceramic instead of metal. These coins, though never circulated, served as a creative attempt to keep commerce alive during trying times.
Known as “phantom coins” or Maboroshi coins, they highlight the resilience and ingenuity of Japan’s wartime economy.
How Were These Coins Designed?
Between 1942 and 1945, around 15 million ceramic coins were manufactured in denominations of 1, 5, and 10 sen (a sen is one-hundredth of a yen).
Each coin bore unique designs, such as Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms, showcasing Japan’s national pride. Unfortunately, their purpose was never fulfilled. By the time the coins were ready, the war ended, and metal currency returned.
What Happened After the War?
The production of ceramic coins stopped in 1945, after Japan’s surrender. Most of these coins were either destroyed or discarded as metal became widely available again.
For decades, these unique coins were largely forgotten, earning them the nickname “phantom coins.”
The Incredible Discovery in Kyoto
Fast forward to August 2023, when Matsukaze Co., Ltd. stumbled upon a remarkable collection of phantom coins. The coins were stored in 15 wooden boxes in an old warehouse belonging to Shofu Kogyo Co., Ltd. in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward. Inside the boxes, the team found an astonishing 500,000 ceramic coins, many in pristine condition.
Each coin, about 0.6 inches in diameter, was a testament to wartime ingenuity. With beautiful designs like Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms, the discovery offers a tangible connection to Japan’s history.
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What Happens Next?
Following the discovery, the Japan Mint Bureau began analyzing the coins to learn more about their production and the challenges Japan faced during the war. Their findings could deepen our understanding of Japan’s wartime economy and its efforts to adapt during resource shortages.
As a gesture of appreciation, the Japan Mint recognized Shofu Kogyo Co., Ltd.’s contribution to preserving these historical artifacts. The Mint’s chairman, Kenji Goto, formally thanked the company and even donated 100 coins back to Shofu as a token of gratitude.
Public Displays and Historical Significance
While these coins hold little monetary value today, their historical importance is immense. They represent resilience and innovation in one of Japan’s most challenging periods.
The coins are now set to be displayed in the Mint Museum in Osaka and other locations, giving the public a chance to connect with this unique chapter of history.
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Why This Matters?
This discovery isn’t just about coins—it’s about the stories they tell. Historians can now explore Japan’s resourceful strategies during World War II, offering insights into how a nation adapted under extreme pressure.
These ceramic coins may have been forgotten, but their reemergence is a powerful reminder of human creativity during adversity.
Editorial Note: This article was created through automated technology, with all details verified and polished by our editorial expert.