Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
April 2021 Hong Kong Auction 5-8 Apr 2021
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JAPAN. Hishi Oban (10 Ryo), ND Tensho Era (ca. 1588). PCGS MS-60 Gold Shield.
Fr-1a; JNDA-09-1 (1); Bank of Japan-Vol. 1 # 569; JV-A1; Hartill-8.1. Weight: 165.83 gms. Dimensions: 145.63 x 85.17 mm. Plain edge. This highly regarded and revered type represents the first Oban of Japan with very few -- about six -- surviving examples, most of which are permanently impounded in institutions. An interesting aspect that sets this type apart from all other Oban issues is the diamond shaped Kiri stamps on the obverse, and as part of the manufacturing process, the addition of a large gold plug that was inserted prior to the application of the ink signature to bring it up to the prescribed weight. The obverse signature, though mostly intact, does exhibit fading in several areas, while the reverse inscription is bold and virtually complete. The hammer marks appear to be randomly applied, slowly working from one end to the other. The three Kiri stamps on the obverse, one at the top and two at the bottom, are deeply applied with good definition. Due the crude nature of manufacture, a "Y" shaped planchet crack has formed on the obverse and is the result of a lamination on the reverse; both of which add character to this incredible early Japanese gold issue. Lovely pale golden tone complemented by mottled sunset hued patina adds to its pleasing appearance and desirability. On the bottom left portion of the obverse, several thin hand-inscribed characters are noted, yet they blend into the coin's fabric, and are of no visual harm. While their appearance seems unusual, we can confirm two others of this type (the JNDA plate and the example sold by Hess-Divo in 2015) that also have additions in this location, suggesting the reason behind it might be more official than it appears at first glance. This EXTREMELY RARE type is considered by most numismatists as virtually uncollectible as so few survivors are known to exist. It is offered so infrequently that when available, they invariably capture the attention of advanced collectors and institutions that desire custodianship of an iconic cultural artifact.
From the Pinnacle Collection.
Estimate: $700000.00- $900000.00
Fr-1a; JNDA-09-1 (1); Bank of Japan-Vol. 1 # 569; JV-A1; Hartill-8.1. Weight: 165.83 gms. Dimensions: 145.63 x 85.17 mm. Plain edge. This highly regarded and revered type represents the first Oban of Japan with very few -- about six -- surviving examples, most of which are permanently impounded in institutions. An interesting aspect that sets this type apart from all other Oban issues is the diamond shaped Kiri stamps on the obverse, and as part of the manufacturing process, the addition of a large gold plug that was inserted prior to the application of the ink signature to bring it up to the prescribed weight. The obverse signature, though mostly intact, does exhibit fading in several areas, while the reverse inscription is bold and virtually complete. The hammer marks appear to be randomly applied, slowly working from one end to the other. The three Kiri stamps on the obverse, one at the top and two at the bottom, are deeply applied with good definition. Due the crude nature of manufacture, a "Y" shaped planchet crack has formed on the obverse and is the result of a lamination on the reverse; both of which add character to this incredible early Japanese gold issue. Lovely pale golden tone complemented by mottled sunset hued patina adds to its pleasing appearance and desirability. On the bottom left portion of the obverse, several thin hand-inscribed characters are noted, yet they blend into the coin's fabric, and are of no visual harm. While their appearance seems unusual, we can confirm two others of this type (the JNDA plate and the example sold by Hess-Divo in 2015) that also have additions in this location, suggesting the reason behind it might be more official than it appears at first glance. This EXTREMELY RARE type is considered by most numismatists as virtually uncollectible as so few survivors are known to exist. It is offered so infrequently that when available, they invariably capture the attention of advanced collectors and institutions that desire custodianship of an iconic cultural artifact.
From the Pinnacle Collection.
Estimate: $700000.00- $900000.00