Recently found these coins (4) in an old bag I've had in my garage, I'm interested in finding out wether they are fake or real and date them to see how old they may be. I've tried using a magnet, an they are not magnetic. I'm also interested in finding out potential value, if any on the coins. Thanks in advance
Try the NGC world price guides. Looks like a 1878 japanese yen - see link below, hope this helps. http://www.ngccoin.com/poplookup/wo...ory=117965&worldcoinid=328941&FromSearch=true
Here's an example on ebay (your mileage may vary): http://www.ebay.com/itm/NGC-AU58-JA...7039214?pt=US_World_Coins&hash=item565d92096e
When you look-up your coins in the Krause World catalog note the precise weight & dimension listed in Krause. I suspect that your coins may deviate from the specified weight(s) listed in Krause. The coins are of a type that are frequently faked and the photos you have posted make them appear suspect to me. My Krause catalog lists an 1878 Yen coin at 29.9600 grams and 38.6 mm. If you do not have an accurate scale, then perhaps you could take it to a jewelry store & ask them to weigh it for you.
They are all typical fakes. Coin # 2 proves this the most clearly. For one, the rounded rims, and two... *drumroll*... it's dated year 10 (1877) when this type starts at year 11 (1878). Only the much smaller gold 1 yen coins were made in 1877. Also, the countermark "Gin" is inconsistent and very crude on some of them.
Just a note for the OP... listen to numismat... he is one of the more knowledgeable CT members when it comes to identifying fakes.