47 Prefectures of Japan Series

1oz Silver Proof "Ibaraki Prefecture"

"The Land of the Rising Sun" named so because the characters that makes Japan's name mean "sun-origin". Japan has a total of 6,852 islands extending along the Pacific coast of East Asia. Through constant progression and evolution as a country, Japan has evolved from over 300 individual prefectures pre-1871 to what is now 47 prefectures. Following the Local Autonomy law of 1947 these prefectures were given governments, parliaments to allow for more political power within each prefecture. Each prefecture is overseen by an elected governor, legislature and administrative bureaucracy. Each prefecture is further divied into cities, towns and villages. With recent economical issues, the nation is currently undergoing administrative reorganization by merging many of the cities, 

1oz Silver Proof "Nagano Prefecture"

towns and villages together.

This process is expected to cut administrative costs. In 2008 the Japanese government launched the commemorative "47 Prefectures of Japan" coin series. Much like the U.S. quarters depicting each state. This series is consistent with Japan's reputation for fine quality and craftsmanship.The Japan Mint will make 1oz .999 Silver colorful coins and also a 7gm bimetallic rendition depicting something unique to each prefecture.

Coins featured in this blog include the 2009 1000 Yen Prefectures of Japan - Ibaraki 1oz Silver Proof. The Ibaraki prefecture takes pride in its traditional culture and nature, as well as in being a center of science and technology in Japan. Also the 2009 1000 Yen Prefectures of Japan - Nagano 1oz Silver Proof Coin. Nagano being most commonly known as the home of the 1998 Winter Olympics. Below is the 2010 1000 Yen Prefectures of Japan - Fukui 1oz Silver Proof. Most notably famous for the many dinosaur fossils that have been excavated in Fukui which are on display at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum.

1oz Silver Proof "Fukui Prefecture"

Their are currently 23 of the 47 prefecture's coins released from the mint. The series will run through 2016. This coin series is among the more difficult to find due to limited availability outside the country. Be sure to act fast as most of the early releases have already sold out and will be difficult to find for sale.

Be sure to head to http://www.coinmerc.com/ and don't miss the coins by theme >