The meaning of sixpence in Sanada Yukimura

Six-character money pattern (six-character money pattern): a money pattern with two rows of three pence, a total of six. It represents the cost of saving six sentient beings (hell, hungry ghosts, animals, Asura, mankind and heaven) by crossing the Three Rivers. This statement comes from the Tibetan belief with strong Buddhist color. During the Warring States Period in Japan, military commanders made meritorious deeds on the battlefield. But killing is the great precept of Buddhism, which will make people fall into hell and suffer endless pain. Therefore, the Tibetan Bodhisattva was merciful and saved six sentient beings with six pence, and there were many military commanders who believed in Buddhism. Sanada Clan's descendants say that this is a family model that was only used during the war. These six copper coins are the embodiment of Buddha's compassion for the dead, and also indicate that the real heavenly army has the power to surpass all beings. When all the soldiers of the real family went out to war, they wore six copper coins around their necks with ropes on them, symbolizing the fighting spirit of death.