1985 Tsukuba Science Expo 500 Yen Coin (Showa 60)
昭和60年 つくば万博 500円記念硬貨
Showa Era
The Tsukuba Science Expo (EXPO '85) was held in Tsukuba, Ibaraki, with the theme "Dwellings and Surroundings — Science and Technology for Man at Home." It drew over 17 million visitors. Mount Tsukuba holds deep Shinto significance: its dual peaks are associated with male and female kami, and Tsukuba-san Jinja has been a place of worship for centuries. The commemorative 500 yen coin was issued in Showa 60 (1985) to mark the exposition.
Cultural context
Japan's imperial year system (gengō) runs alongside the Gregorian calendar. Showa 60 means the 60th year of Emperor Hirohito's reign. To convert: Showa + 59 = Gregorian year (e.g. Showa 60 = 1985). The kanji on the coin face indicate the era and year.
Inscriptions & translations
- 昭和六十年 → Showa Year 60 (1985) (Imperial year: 60th year of Emperor Hirohito's reign. Add 1925 to get 1985.)
- 日本国 → Japan (Nation of Japan) (Standard inscription on modern Japanese coinage.)
- 五百円 → 500 Yen
- つくば万国博覧会記念 → Tsukuba World Exposition Commemorative (Commemorates EXPO '85 in Tsukuba.)