Currency Exchange

Article Tools

sponsored by:

	E-mail Article
	Printer Format

Japan / 5000 Yen, 2003

Japan’s banknotes begin with the same basic ingredients as western currency. But these elements come together in a way that suggests contemplative minimalism. The images help: the ¥5000 note features 19th century female novelist Ichiyo Higuchi on the front, and a field of irises on the reverse. The result is elegant and restrained.

More From the Atlantic