Global: Japan Introduces New Banknotes with Advanced 3D Hologram Technology to Combat Counterfeiting

Japan has unveiled its first new banknotes in two decades, incorporating cutting-edge 3D hologram technology to enhance security and prevent counterfeiting.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida praised the innovative anti-counterfeit features of the new 10,000 yen, 5,000 yen, and 1,000 yen notes, describing their introduction as a historic moment.

“I hope the public will appreciate the new notes, and they will help invigorate the Japanese economy,” Kishida remarked at the Bank of Japan event.

Despite the excitement surrounding the new notes, existing currency will remain in circulation. In fact, older notes will still be required for many vending machines and bus fares, as reported by local media.

Kishida highlighted that the individuals featured on the new notes symbolize Japanese capitalism, women’s equality, and scientific innovation.

The 10,000 yen note, equivalent to approximately £47, features Eiichi Shibusawa, known as “the father of Japanese capitalism,” a key figure in establishing Japan’s modern economy and founding numerous companies.

The 5,000 yen note, worth about £23, showcases Umeko Tsuda, a pioneering feminist and educator who founded a college. The 1,000 yen note, valued at around £4.70, depicts physician and bacteriologist Shibasaburo Kitasato, who made significant contributions to the research on tetanus and the bubonic plague.

The reverse sides of the notes feature iconic Japanese imagery: Tokyo Station, wisteria flowers, and ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai’s depiction of Mount Fuji, respectively.

In addition to the advanced security features, the new notes include larger print to improve readability, especially for the country’s aging population.

By the end of March next year, nearly 7.5 billion new banknotes are expected to be printed, according to government estimates. The total value of the new notes entering circulation in a single day is projected to be 1.6 trillion yen (£9.4 billion).

It may take some time for the general public to receive the new notes. Initially, they will be distributed to banks and other financial institutions before being available at automatic teller machines and retail locations, as stated by the Bank of Japan.

While cash remains the dominant method of transaction in Japan, and cashless payments have been slower to gain popularity compared to other countries, the importance of cash is still recognized.

“Although the world is moving towards cashless interactions, we believe cash remains important as a way for safely settling payments anywhere and anytime,” said Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda.