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SILVER PROOF COIN 47 PREFECTURES #9 GIFU JAPAN MINT 2010

Gifu, 2010 issue of silver proof colorized 1000 yen coin by Japan Mint, from Japan 47 prefectures series. Gifu is located almost in the center of Japan and out of Japan's 47 prefectures, is one of only eight prefectures with no access to the sea. Obverse design: Ukai (cormorant fishing) on the Nagara River.

JAPAN 47 PREFECTURES - GIFU - 9th ISSUE 2010

To mark the 60th Anniversary of Enforcement of the Local Autonomy Law, the Japan Mint launched "Japan 47 Prefectures Coin Program" in 2008. In this program, will be issued silver colorized coins of 47 prefectures in Japan for several years (an 8-year series). Obverse is each prefecture's own design.
Common reverse design of 1000 yen silver coin: Snow Crystals, Moon and Cherry Blossoms.

BACKGROUND AND HISTORY


	Traditional cormorant fishing on the Nagara River, with its long history going back around 1,300 years, is conducted from May to October every year, and is preserved by the Japanese Imperial Family. Because cormorant fishing is a daily activity for nearly five months of the year, the fishing masters begin each day by selecting ten to twelve healthy cormorants for the evening’s activities. When the birds are selected and the boats are prepared, the six fishing masters draw ropes to determine the order in which they will fish. When the cormorants catch the fish, they are brought back to the boat using ropes attached to their bodies. When they are back in the boat, the fishing masters remove the fish from the birds’ throats. Each bird can hold up to six fish in its throat. The birds are prevented from swallowing the fish because of a ring tied around their necks. The cormorants, however, are still able to swallow smaller fish. Though the ropes are strong, the fishing masters are able to quickly break them if a bird’s rope gets caught beneath rocks, ensuring the bird will not drown. Each night, cormorant fishing officially begins when three fireworks are set off in the evening sky. At first, the boats come down the river, one by one, catching fish. They use a fire attached to the front of the boat to attract the fish and hit the sides of the boat to keep the birds active. As the night draws to a close, the six boats will line up side-by-side and descend the river in a process called sougarami. Those who come to view cormorant fishing are often able to view the night’s catch. Capital City: Gifu Population in 2007 (thousands): 2,104 Area in 2007 (square km): 10,621


		Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.
		Limited edition of just 10.000 pcs for worldwide market.
		It belongs to the "Japan 47 prefectures" series.
		The coin comes in plastic holder with a beautiful presentation case.
		A perfect gift for those interest not only in coins but also in Japanese own history, nature and culture.


	Metal:	Silver 925
	Country:	Japan
	Year:	2010
	Face value:	1000 Yen
	Weight:	31,1 g
	Diameter:	40 mm
	Grade:	UNC
	Quality:	Proof with Color
	Mintage:	Limited edition of just 10.000 pcs