Japanese Koban-series 3 sen stamp

Updated August 7, 2026

This is a genuine Japanese Koban-series 3 sen stamp.IdentificationCountry: Japan (Japanese Empire)Series: Koban issue (Old Koban / early Koban period)Denomination: 3 senColor: Rose-red / carmine-roseDesign: Central Imperial chrysanthemum crest, with “3” and “SN” in the corners, Japanese characters, and the typical Koban frame.The circular cancel includes parts of “IMPERIAL JAPANESE POST,” which is consistent with the period.Year / Period:This belongs to the Old Koban series, primarily issued in the late 1870s (around 1876–1879). The 3 sen appeared in orange and rose/red shades during this time. Later New Koban / UPU printings continued similar designs into the 1880s–1890s, but the overall style and “SN” corner format point to the earlier Koban group.(Exact Scott or Sakura number depends on the precise shade and perforation, but it falls in the Old Koban 3 sen range, commonly referenced near Scott #70 for the orange and related rose shades.)ConditionUsed with a clear circular cancel. Centering is reasonable. The reverse shows typical paper aging and some residue. No major damage is apparent.ValueCommon used Koban 3 sen stamps in this condition are modest in value.Typical market value: $3 – $12.

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