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Coins in Japan in ancient times

Fufonsen

40 pieces of Fuhonsen was found in the remains of Asuka Pond (Nara) in 1998. Since They were found in the stratum of the 600s, the money became the evidence that there was a currency which is older than Wadoukaichin in Japan. In 600s, Asuka Pond was a center of Fujiwara-kyo. It is thought that fuhonsen was used for spells because the number of pieces found is insufficient for circulation for it circulates at the capital in the capital. (Youshousen means a coin which is for fortune-telling.)

Wadoukaichin

Because a Chinese copper coin is excavate from remains of around B.C.,it is thought that many have come to be used in Japan was also around B.C. These coins were not for commercial use, but used mainly as a talisman against evil and spell.

It was famous as the first constantly, which was used mainly for proof of successful public servants who were recognized by the imperial court. In addition, the court set value of Wadoukaichin very highly in order to make the finance of the imperoal court wealthy.

This policy was based on a chinese monetary and the law called Chikusenjoi was made. This law aimed to promote the circularity of the many by giving public servant higher ranks according to how much money they save.And it promotes the circulation of the money. However, the value of the money which the Imperial Court established slumps soon after publication.

The Imperial Court does it with value 10 times as large as old money newly to cope with it; cast money newly, but, as for it, value slumps immediately. The Imperial Court casts new coins again, but the value slumps, too. As such, the money with many kinds made in these days is called our nation 12 sen. However, it is hardly cast coins by the Imperial Court last in those days in Kengen Taiho because copper having been precious and the enthusiasm of the Imperial Court cooled down.

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