Watch List notes:

JAPAN: Meiji, 1868-1912, pewter token (3.65g), year 25 (1892), hondo joto (Hondo completion of framework), dated Meiji 25 year, 11 month, 29 day (November 29th, 1892) on reverse, About Unc, R. Legend translates as hondo (Mahavira Hall), the main building of a Buddhist temple, and joto [shiki] (ridgepole raising ceremony). Rice, salt and alcohol are used in the "Joto-shiki" and are sprinkled around at each corner of the building as an offering to the gods. The purpose of this ceremony is to convey thanks to the workers for their efforts to this point (upon completion of the framework), as well as pray for their safety as they climb about the roof and other dangerous heights. Traditionally it was also, as the name indicates, to celebrate the actual raising of the ridgepole (the horizontal timber traditionally set at the top of the roof where the rafters are fastened together).

Estimate: 75- 100 USD