2$ Maneki-neko

The Japanese lucky cat. A numismatic interpretation of one of Japan’s most recognizable legends. It is also the first coin in the world to tell a story in comic-book form. Dynamic frames guide the viewer through the key moments of the tale, while precise digital printing brings the composition to life, adding depth and a mystical character.

According to the story, a powerful samurai, seeking shelter from a storm, noticed a cat whose inviting paw gesture seemed to beckon him toward a nearby temple. Intrigued, he left his place beneath the tree. Moments later, lightning struck the very spot where he had been standing. The cat that saved his life became a symbol of protection and good fortune, and the temple prospered, gaining wealth and fame.

This issue tells the legend through imagery — from the cat’s gesture, to the lightning strike, to the gratitude that transforms into an enduring symbol of luck. The comic-style narrative makes every detail function like a frame, and the entire design reads like a short story captured on a coin.