Description

An antique Japanese Zeni Bako (merchant coin box) made nearly entirely of Keyaki (Zelkova) wood. All original hand made iron fittings. Rope holes at the bottom sides used to tie and secure box for transport. Top has original round coin insert with neighboring later created coin slot to accept larger coins for safekeeping. Removable cover features a hard mount iron loop allowing a lock to be added to keep it from opening. Small bottom drawer with iron loop connection was made for the same purpose.

Originally used by a merchant whose business dealt with the handling of coins for transactions. The drawer was used to store receipts, IOU notes and at a later time, paper currency. An unusual feature of this box making it quite unique and somewhat rare is the secret box hidden behind the drawer which thieves would overlook while cashing out the box. Without coins the Zeni Bako weighs a hefty 25 pounds.

Dimensions: 11 3/4″ Wide by 12 1/4″ High by 19″ Deep