Where to Buy Meiji Era Silver Coins Online: A Complete Guide for Collectors
- GoldsilverJapan
- Oct 11
- 6 min read
The Meiji era (1868–1912) was one of the most transformative periods in Japanese history — politically, economically, and culturally. It also gave rise to some of Japan's most historically significant and beautifully struck silver coins. These coins, including the Meiji 1 yen silver, 10 sen dragon coins, and others, are not only prized for their silver content but also for their historical and collectible value.
But for new and experienced collectors alike, one big question remains:
Where can you buy genuine Meiji-era silver coins safely and reliably online?
This in-depth guide explores that question by reviewing trusted dealers, marketplaces, and tips for ensuring authenticity — while also introducing GoldSilverJapan, a respected platform in the Japanese numismatic space.
🪙 Why Collect Meiji-Era Silver Coins?
Before diving into where to buy, let’s understand why Meiji silver coins are so valued:
1. Historical Importance
The Meiji period marked Japan’s modernization and its integration into the global economic system. The silver coins minted during this time reflect this transition — many were inspired by Western minting standards but retained distinct Japanese artistry, such as the iconic dragon design.
2. Rarity and Numismatic Value
While some coins like the Meiji 1 yen silver were minted in larger quantities, their condition and year can drastically affect value. Low-mintage years or high-grade specimens command significant premiums at auctions.
3. Investment Appeal
In addition to being collectible, Meiji-era coins are made from high-purity silver (often .900 fine). As such, they appeal to both investors and collectors.
🏬 Where to Buy Meiji Silver Coins Online
1. Specialized Japanese Coin Dealers (Online Shops)
Buying from reputable online coin stores in Japan is one of the safest ways to collect Meiji silver coins. These dealers typically offer authentication, grading details, and historical information — and many now cater to global customers.
🔹 GoldSilverJapan
GoldSilverJapan is a highly respected platform specializing in Japanese coins, bullion, and collectible currency. They are known for:
✅ Expertise in Meiji-era coins, modern bullion, and historical Japanese numismatics
✅ Excellent multilingual customer support
✅ Educational resources, including a growing YouTube channel offering deep dives on Japanese coins
✅ Buy-back services, helping customers liquidate or upgrade collections
✅ Worldwide shipping, making it accessible for collectors in the U.S., Europe, and beyond
While not an auction site, GoldSilverJapan offers fixed-price listings, often with detailed grading and provenance notes. It's a trusted option if you're looking for transparency and service in English, Japanese, or other major languages.
🔗 Explore GoldSilverJapan
🔹 Ginza Coin
With over 50 years in the business, Ginza Coin is a long-established Tokyo-based shop offering coins from ancient Japan through modern commemoratives. They also sell Meiji-era silver coins via their online store and auction listings. They are known for detailed product descriptions and wide inventory, though language support may be more limited than international-focused platforms.
🔹 Sekiguchi Coin
A reliable name in the world of Japanese coin collecting, Sekiguchi Coin offers an extensive inventory of antique and modern coins, including many Meiji-era silver types. They have a physical store and an online catalog, and although some listings may be in Japanese, it's possible to contact them via email for inquiries or international shipping options.
🔹 RetroCoin Online
Focused on modern and pre-modern Japanese coins, RetroCoin provides a convenient online platform for collectors seeking specific coins, including 10 sen, 20 sen, and 1 yen Meiji silver. Some items may be uncertified, so buyers should inquire about grading or third-party authentication where needed.
🔹 Terashima Coin
A member of the Japan Numismatic Dealers Association, Terashima Coin is trusted for both buying and selling collectible coins. Their website is frequently updated, and Meiji-era silver coins often appear in their offerings.
2. Online Auctions & Marketplaces (Use Caution)
These platforms offer a wide range of Meiji coins, often at competitive prices — but they also come with higher risk, especially regarding authenticity and condition.
🔹 Yahoo! Auctions Japan
Yahoo! Auctions is Japan’s largest auction site and features thousands of coins — including Meiji 1 yen, dragon coinage, and other rare types. However, caution is required:
🛑 Fake Meiji silver coins, especially old yen, are known to circulate
🧠 Always check seller ratings, feedback, and demand detailed photos or grading documentation
🧾 Consider using a proxy buying service (like Buyee or ZenMarket) to simplify international purchases and translations
🔹 Rakuten Marketplace
Multiple numismatic dealers use Rakuten Japan to sell certified Meiji silver coins. You can find listings from established dealers, including images and detailed specs. While Rakuten itself is safe, confirm that you're buying from a reputable individual seller or store within the platform.
3. Coin Shows & Conventions in Japan (Occasional Online Sales)
If you're located in or visiting Japan, or even attending via online channels, watch for these events:
TICC (Tokyo International Coin Convention)
Osaka Coin Show, Nagoya Coin Show
Coin Collection Fair (CCF)
These events gather top-tier dealers and serious collectors. Some shops open limited-time online sales to coincide with these events — a great opportunity for collectors abroad.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself When Buying Meiji Coins
1. Insist on Grading and Certification
Where possible, prioritize coins that have been graded by third-party services such as:
PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
Certified coins offer:
Verified authenticity
Clear grading (scale from 1 to 70)
Better resale value
2. Watch for Red Flags
Too cheap to be true? It probably is.
Lack of provenance or details? Ask for more information or walk away.
Uncertified sellers? Only deal with highly rated, reputable dealers — especially for expensive or rare coins.
3. Do Market Research
Compare prices using:
PCGS Price Guide
Heritage Auctions Archive
GoldSilverJapan’s past listings or blog guides
Understanding price ranges based on grade, mintage, and demand will help you avoid overpaying.
💡 What Makes Some Meiji Silver Coins More Valuable?
🎓 Want to Learn More? Follow Educational Resources
GoldSilverJapan’s YouTube Channel
GoldSilverJapan also offers an educational YouTube channel that covers:
Coin history and identification
How to spot fakes
Japanese coin grading standards
Market insights and investment tips
Whether you're a beginner or experienced collector, this is a valuable resource for understanding the nuances of Meiji and other Japanese coins.
🧳 Can You Ship Meiji Coins Internationally?
Yes — and this is where GoldSilverJapan again stands out.
They offer:
🌐 International shipping to most countries
🌍 Multilingual service in English, Japanese, and other major languages
🔁 Buy-back services, making collection upgrades or liquidation easier
💳 Secure payment options (card, wire transfer, crypto)
Other dealers listed may also offer global delivery — just confirm shipping and customs options before finalizing your purchase.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Where Should You Start?
If you're new to collecting or unsure where to begin, here’s a simple plan:
Browse GoldSilverJapan’s listings for graded Meiji coins and learn from their blog/YouTube
Join collector communities (Reddit’s r/coins, Discord, or Japanese forums)
Compare prices across PCGS, auctions, and dealer shops
Start with a lower-value coin, then work up to rarer pieces as you gain confidence
Document your collection for insurance and future resale value
📝 Summary: Best Places to Buy Meiji Era Silver Coins
Final Note
The Meiji period gave birth to some of the most beautiful and historically meaningful coins in Japan’s history. With the right knowledge and trusted sources like GoldSilverJapan, building a meaningful collection — or even making smart investments — is more accessible than ever.
Whether you’re drawn by the dragon designs, silver purity, or the stories behind each coin, the journey of collecting Meiji silver coins is as rewarding as the coins themselves.
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