Japan Mint: Hiroshima Branch
July 7, 2026
Most countries have a mint at a single location. Few nations, like the United States or Germany, have multiple mints. Japan, with three locations, is one of them. This is necessary to cover the entire production process in a decentralized manner: from alloying and coiling to blanks, coining, and packaging. In a country where cash remains so central, this is a strategic statement.
Osaka, whose mint I had the privilege of visiting in 2024, is home to the headquarters of the Japan Mint, where decisions are made regarding themes, motifs, strategies, and all administrative details. Here you will find the creative department, responsible for the dies, as well as the enamel department, where the brightly colored medals – a specialty of the Japan Mint – are created.
From Coin Weekly