Japan will begin printing new banknotes with the first usage of cutting-edge holographic technology.
According to Kyodo News, holographic pictures of historical individuals appear to revolve in 3D on the bills as an anti-counterfeit measure.
For the first time in 20 years, the 10,000-yen, 5,000-yen, and 1,000-yen bills will have larger face value numbers printed on them than the existing versions to improve visibility.
Tactile marks will make the vision impaired more recognizable when touched. The 10,000-yen note will feature Eiichi Shibusawa (1840-1931), renowned as “the father of Japanese capitalism” who helped build about 500 enterprises, while the 5,000-yen note will feature schoolteacher Umeko Tsuda (1864-1929), a fierce defender of women’s rights.
The face of microbiologist Shibasaburo Kitasato (1853-1931), known as “the father of modern Japanese medicine,” will appear on the 1,000 yen note.
Approximately 7.5 billion new banknotes will have been created by the end of March next year. Existing banknotes will be valid upon the introduction of the new ones.
Since the country issued its first banknote in 1885, there have been 53 different designs. This latest update, which came into effect on 3 July, is a measure to improve security and usability in the face of technological advances.
It may take some time before ordinary people get hold of the new notes. They will first go to banks and other financial institutions before being distributed to ATMs and shops, according to the Bank of Japan.
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