This circulating commemorative coin was issued to celebrate... the introduction of the shotgun to Japan? That's what some sources say, but why the date range? Also, that is apparently a Japanese cavalry man riding the horse and aiming the espingarda.
I believe "espingarda" translates as "shotgun" but this source is more specific, calling it a Moorish musket. Muskets are muzzle-loading, but I believe shotguns fire from shells.
Finally, the Chinese characters that appear mean "iron" and "weapon" so there's that. I don't know, but I like the horse.
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