Shop sign of MoneychangerSince there was no single fixed currency, the moneychangers played a key role in all trading activities. Paper money did not exist. With gold, silver and copper coins in circulation in frequently varying amounts, the moneychangers determined their relative values according to the market. Before very long, currency reform and the introduction of modern financial systems would make the moneychangers redundant, but meanwhile Tokushichi I learned his trade under his master. Their business relationship developed into a personal relationship, and, when he was about 21, Osakaya adopted Tokushichi into the family. Tokushichi's filial role did not last long: Yahei Osakaya died in 1871, the same year as the adoption.
