Unveiling the Mystery: Japan’s Rare ¥2,000 Note Uncovered!
The 2,000 yen note, a denomination of Japanese yen, is a fascinating subject for many foreign visitors. It was first issued on July 19, 2,000, to commemorate the 26th G8 Summit and the millennium1. Unlike other commemorative banknotes, the 2,000 yen note circulates as a regular issue
The design of the 2,000 yen note is similar to that of other Japanese notes in circulation at the time of issue. The obverse side depicts Shureimon, a 16th-century gate at Shuri Castle in Naha, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Cherry blossom and chrysanthemum motifs are part of the linear design work in the background.
The reverse side depicts a scene from The Tale of Genji and a portrait of Murasaki Shikibu, the noblewoman to whom this work of classic literature has been attributed. A copy of a portion of script from the original work is included
Despite its unique design and historical significance, the 2,000 yen note is rarely seen in circulation. This rarity is linked to the few vending machines or ATMs that accept this denomination. As a result, tourists often find themselves using these notes at storefronts.
The Bank of Japan stopped producing 2,000 yen notes in 2004 when there were 513 million of them in circulation. This figure dropped to 111 million by 2010 when it was recorded that 2,000 yen notes made up just around 0.9% of all notes in circulation
The 2,000 yen note may be an unfamiliar sight for many tourists visiting Japan. However, its unique design and intriguing history make it a fascinating part of Japanese currency. So next time you come across one, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and significance!
Design and Features
The design of the 2,000 yen note is similar to that of other Japanese notes in circulation at the time of issue. The obverse side depicts Shureimon, a 16th-century gate at Shuri Castle in Naha, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Cherry blossom and chrysanthemum motifs are part of the linear design work in the background.
The reverse side depicts a scene from The Tale of Genji and a portrait of Murasaki Shikibu, the noblewoman to whom this work of classic literature has been attributed. A copy of a portion of script from the original work is included
Rarity and Usage
Despite its unique design and historical significance, the 2,000 yen note is rarely seen in circulation. This rarity is linked to the few vending machines or ATMs that accept this denomination. As a result, tourists often find themselves using these notes at storefronts.
The Bank of Japan stopped producing 2,000 yen notes in 2004 when there were 513 million of them in circulation. This figure dropped to 111 million by 2010 when it was recorded that 2,000 yen notes made up just around 0.9% of all notes in circulation
The 2,000 yen note may be an unfamiliar sight for many tourists visiting Japan. However, its unique design and intriguing history make it a fascinating part of Japanese currency. So next time you come across one, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and significance!
