Expert: Brad Swain - 4/2/2010

Question
Hello, several years ago I found a coin that is roughly the size and dimensions of a US quarter. It is silver in color, although it has become faded. On one side there is what appears to be a flower, five points but not realistic looking. There are asian characters on both sides. On the other side there are two pictures, on the left, a leafy plant of some kind, and on the right life-like looking flowers that remind me of cherry blossoms.  In between those there are two symbols.  The edge of the coin is ribbed, although it too is worn.  It may be a token of some kind.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Kate, this is a nickel-brass Republic of China (Taiwan) 1 Yuan coin featuring a plum blossom on one side and an orchid on the other. The date is in Chinese characters dating from the founding of the republic in 1911, for example 49 to 69 (1960-80).
Japanese, Chinese and Arabic numbers: http://userwebs.psknet.com/tbirde/Arabic_Jap.jpg
Collector value may be worth about .10 with moderate wear to maybe .20 with light wear to perhaps .50 if uncirculated (no wear).
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad