For my primary source, I chose examples of the first standardized currency of Japan. This source would be useful for many kinds of research into the history of Japan. First and foremost, these would be instrumental in studies of early Japanese economy and currency. This is the most obvious and straight forward connection, but none the less an important one. These coins would also be crucial in the study of the evolution of the Japanese currency. These, along with examples from other historical periods as well as modern examples would provide key insight into the changes made throughout history to the various currencies present in Japan.
So far, all of the topics have been based around currency, but these coins would also be useful in other branches of research as well. For example, a person studying Asiatic trade would find that these pieces would be key in tracking the movement of Japanese coinage throughout Asia and the world. A researcher studying the late seventh century would find that these served to assist in the study of the Asian region during this time period. Finally, anyone making a study of the Asuka Period of Japanese history would find these coins a key asset when discussing the coinage or economy of this period. The photo is courtesy of http://www.trussel.com/prehist/news102.htm
So far, all of the topics have been based around currency, but these coins would also be useful in other branches of research as well. For example, a person studying Asiatic trade would find that these pieces would be key in tracking the movement of Japanese coinage throughout Asia and the world. A researcher studying the late seventh century would find that these served to assist in the study of the Asian region during this time period. Finally, anyone making a study of the Asuka Period of Japanese history would find these coins a key asset when discussing the coinage or economy of this period. The photo is courtesy of http://www.trussel.com/prehist/news102.htm