The Japan hunt is a field assignment inside a family trip, not a claimed success story. Findings belong here only after the coins, receipts, and shop conditions are observed in person.
The working hit list
- Meiji silver dragon yen.
- Early Shōwa silver.
- Modern condition rarities worth comparing with U.S. sold listings.
- Interesting circulation finds with a clear story, even when the market premium is modest.
The field method
- Set a separate collection budget before shopping.
- Photograph price tags and keep receipts for yen-to-dollar comparisons.
- Screen weight, dimensions, magnet response, and surfaces; treat the result as screening, not authentication.
- Ask before filming inside a shop or including an owner on camera.
- Report a mixed verdict if the evidence is mixed.
Snapshot status · September 2026The trip is planned for September 18–30. This guide makes no claim about what was found or bought.