Even though he was assassinated more than 140 years ago, the name of Sakamoto Ryoma continues to pop up today, most recently as an inspiration behind the NHK drama "Ryoma-den" and as the historical figure favored by lawmakers of all ideological stripes.
But the craze over the Edo Period figure surged last month when Japan Mint announced that Sakamoto's likeness would appear on commemorative ¥1,000 coins to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Local Autonomy Law. Each coin will be sold for ¥6,000 but are expected to trade for much more as fans try to get ahold of the limited edition collectibles.
Following are some questions and answers about Sakamoto Ryoma and his legacy, and how he continues to win over modern Japanese:
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