Translation guide
A coin made of silver, used historically or in fantasy settings. In modern Japan, silver-colored coins exist but are not made of silver.
Referring to a coin actually made of silver, often in historical, fantasy, or gaming contexts.
Referring to a modern Japanese coin that is silver in color, such as the 100-yen or 50-yen coin.
In modern Japan, coins are referred to by their value, not by metal. The 100-yen and 50-yen coins are silver-colored but not made of silver. Calling them 'silver coins' would be misleading.
百円玉を入れてください。
Please insert a 100-yen coin.
五十円玉がたくさんある。
I have a lot of 50-yen coins.
Long ago, people shopped with silver coins.
このゲームでは銀貨を集めるとアイテムが買える。
In this game, you can buy items by collecting silver coins.
Literally 'coin of silver', used when emphasizing the material or in casual description.
宝物庫には金貨と銀のコインが山積みだった。
In the treasure vault, gold coins and silver coins were piled up.
Literally 'silver-colored coin', used when describing the appearance rather than the material. Not common in everyday speech.
財布の中に銀色の硬貨が数枚ある。
There are a few silver-colored coins in my wallet.