A Legacy of the Peninsular Administration: The 1932 Bank of Chosen 1 Yen

Capture a significant moment in the complex history of the Korean Peninsula with this authentic Bank of Chosen 1 Yen note. This series, printed by the Japanese Imperial Printing Bureau, served as the primary currency for Korea under Japanese rule. It is a masterpiece of early 20th-century engraving, blending traditional East Asian motifs with modern security printing standards.

Historic & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features a detailed portrait of Takenouchi no Sukune, the legendary Japanese statesman and "immortal" advisor to five emperors. The center features a large green and orange guilloche with the denomination "One Yen" in traditional Hanja characters. To the left is the red seal of the Bank of Chosen.

• Reverse (Back): A formal, western-influenced design featuring "1 YEN" in the center. The surrounding border contains intricate floral scrollwork and the Paulownia crest, which served as a symbol of the administration.

• The Bank of Chosen: Established in Gyeongseong (Seoul), this bank issued currency that was interchangeable with the Japanese Yen, facilitating trade across the Japanese Empire.

• Exceptional Paper Quality (EPQ): The EPQ designation confirms the note is entirely original. Given the age and the geopolitical upheavals of the Korean Peninsula, finding an "un-doctored" survivor in Choice Uncirculated condition is rare.

Item Details:

• Issuer: Bank of Chosen (Korea).

• Denomination: One Yen.

• Date: ND (1932).

• Pick Number: P-29a (K&C 51.8).

• Serial Number: 502361.

• Block: 285.

• Grading: PMG 63 Choice Uncirculated EPQ.

Collector's Perspective: This is a "must-have" for collectors specializing in the Japanese Occupation of Korea or general East Asian history. The 1932 series is prized for its high-quality paper and sharp engravings. A Choice Uncirculated 63 example offers the perfect balance of prestige and value, showing original luster and perfectly sharp corners.