Description

The Currency of the Samurai Era

Feudal Japan’s Samurai Bu Ryo Coins were as unique as the samurai themselves, serving as both currency and a reflection of Japan’s rich warrior culture. Beginning around 1569, Japan adopted a tri-metallic currency system based on copper, silver, and gold, with transactions measured in ryō, a unit from the shakkanhō system. These coins were valued by weight, much like bullion, rather than by denomination.

The bu, or Ichibu gin (1 bu silver), Nishu (2 shu gold), and Keicho kobanza (oval gold coin) were among the most widely used coins under the Tokugawa Shogunate. These rectangular and oval coins were adorned with intricate Japanese calligraphy and stylized paulownia flowers, showcasing the elegance of samurai-era craftsmanship. More than just currency, these coins symbolize a time when Japan was ruled by the warrior class, cultivating the Bushido philosophy and shaping the nation’s history.

Iron Mountain Armory proudly recreates these historic coins with exceptional attention to detail, offering both economical and high-quality replicas. Our coins are carefully duplicated from original minted bu coins dating from 1837 to 1869. You may choose between alloy reproductions and traditional silver or gold-minted coins. The more economical versions are single-sided, while our authentic bu coins are double-sided, staying true to tradition. The koban (oval coin) is naturally double-sided.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Sold in Sets of 4: Each order includes four selected coins.
• Authentic Historical Design: Cast from original Tokugawa-era coins.
• Economical & Precious Metal Options: Choose from alloy, silver, or gold replicas.
• Custom Minting Available: Personalized coin designs for bulk orders.

Add a Samurai Clan Asabukuro (hemp bag) to store and display your Samurai Bu Ryo Coins in style!

Shipping Information:

Our artisans strive to maintain small quantities in stock for quick fulfillment. Please allow 4 to 5 days for careful processing of your order.

More History and Details about Samurai Currency:

Samurai Currency: Gold, Silver, and the Economy of Edo

Step into the bustling streets of Edo, where samurai, merchants, and artisans trade with coins of kin (gold) and gin (silver). Unlike today’s standardized money, feudal Japan’s currency varied by region, with coins minted in bars or bullions—easily broken for exact payments.

During the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603–1869), Japan’s economy thrived on gold and silver coins, the most common being:

• Shu Coins (1/16 ryō) – Smallest, often silver.
• Bu Coins (1/4 ryō) – Silver (ichibu gin) or gold (nishu kin).
• Ryō Coins (1 ryō) – The famous oval koban, pure gold.

Wealthy daimyo stored koban in treasure chests, while samurai and merchants carried bu or shu coins in silk pouches tucked into their obi (sash).

To put it simply:
💰 Large gold coin = Nibu Kin
💰 Small gold coin = Nishu Kin
💰 Large silver coin = Ichibu Gin
💰 Small silver coin = Isshu Gin

These coins weren’t just money—they symbolized power and prestige. Whether paying for armor, sake, or services, samurai-era currency tells a story of wealth, honor, and ingenuity.

Would you have been a gold-wielding daimyo or a silver-saving merchant? Let us know in the comments! ⚔️💰