Japan to issue new banknotes with historic figures that appear to rotate in 3D
- The first design change of the Japanese banknotes in 20 years is aimed at combating counterfeit bills
In the first design change in 20 years, the 10,000 yen, 5,000 yen, and 1,000 yen bills will have bigger face value numbers printed on them than the current versions, so all people, regardless of age and nationality, can recognise them easily.
Tactile marks will allow visually impaired people to touch and tell which banknote they are holding.
Eiichi Shibusawa (1840-1931), known as “the father of Japanese capitalism” who helped establish around 500 companies, will be featured on the 10,000 yen note, with the red-brick building of Tokyo Station depicted on the back.
The 5,000 yen note will feature educator Umeko Tsuda (1864-1929), who during her lifetime strove to raise the status of women in society. Wisteria flowers, cherished in Japan since ancient times, will appear on the reverse side.
The 1,000 yen note will use the portrait of microbiologist Shibasaburo Kitasato (1853-1931), dubbed “the father of modern Japanese medicine” for his contributions to the treatment of tetanus. On the flipside is “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” a work by ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai depicting big waves and Mt. Fuji.