How to Identify Old Japanese Yen Paper Money

Before the first yen paper currency was printed in 1872, Japanese money was mainly minted in coins. In 1868 the government issued the "Dajokan Satsu", but this currency was replaced soon by western styled yen paper notes. Today, the Japanese yen is the third most traded currency in the world after the US dollar and the Euro. Use these ideas to help you identify old Japanese paper money.

Instructions

1. Determine the period of the currency

   Review the time of issuance to identify old Japanese paper money. Look for the time of the Meiji government, Dajokan satsu - 1868. In 1872, The "Meiji Tsuho Satsu" was the first yen currency printed using the Western method for coloring paper money. In 1873 - The National bank notes were issued by various Japanese national banks.

   Look for the silver and gold standards banknotes, and for certificate sticker notes. During 1885 the Bank of Japan issued its first note which was backed by silver. Later in 1897, the bank notes were backed by gold. In 1942, The Bank of Japan issued new bank notes no longer backed by gold. In 1946 new banknotes were issued with a certificate sticker attached in front of the note. See link in the Resources section for Old Japanese Yen currency pictures.

2. Find Japanese money issued for occupied countries

   Look for old Japanese money printed for the occupied countries: Indonesia, Malay, Philippines, Burma and Oceania. During War World II military currencies were issued by the Japanese government to be used in the countries that were governed by Japan at the time. The denomination and name of the money is written in English on the front and back of the currencies.

3. Note the government official printed on the paper

   Find the official person printed on the banknote to identify old Japanese money. The portrait of one of Japan empress, emperor, prince and other royalties and government officials are printed on the front and back of the old Japanese paper money. See Resources section for a list of portraits on old Japanese money.

4. Review Numismatic publications

   Use Numismatic Publications to identify and learn about old Japanese banknotes. There are various publications found online and in bookstores of old Japanese paper money. Look for catalogs and websites that contain large numbers of pictures and information.

Resources

• Old Japanese Paper Money
• Portraits on Old Japanese Paper Money