2 Vintage Japanese Banknotes – 1 Yen & 5 Sen – Uncirculated (Edo–Shōwa Design)

A beautiful set of two original vintage banknotes from Japan, both in uncirculated (UNC) condition – crisp, flat, sharply printed, and completely unused. These notes showcase the refined engraving style and symbolic artistry characteristic of early to mid–20th-century Japanese design.
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Included in the Set:
1. 1 Yen Banknote – Portrait of Ninomiya Sontoku
• Features a detailed portrait of Ninomiya Sontoku (1787–1856), the renowned Japanese philosopher and agricultural reformer.
• The lower section depicts a rooster standing on rice stalks, symbolizing diligence and prosperity.
• The obverse includes the Imperial Chrysanthemum emblem and fine ornamental patterns.
• Color: Sepia-brown on cream paper
• Size: approx. 140 × 76 mm
• Condition: Uncirculated – sharp corners, original paper sheen, no folds or handling marks.
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2. 5 Sen Banknote – Plum Blossom Design
• Shows a branch of plum blossoms (ume), a symbol of renewal and resilience in Japanese culture.
• Printed in delicate gray and light-brown tones with red seals.
• Size: approx. 105 × 55 mm
• Condition: Uncirculated – flawless paper, vivid colors, full original freshness.
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Details:
• Denominations: 1 Yen & 5 Sen
• Issuer: Bank of Japan (Nippon Ginkō)
• Era: Shōwa period (mid-20th century)
• Material: High-quality banknote paper with embossed seals
• Condition: Both UNC (Uncirculated) – never used, exceptionally preserved
• Origin: Japan
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Collector’s Note:
This elegant pair combines historical portrait art with classic botanical symbolism of the Shōwa era. Thanks to their perfect uncirculated preservation, these notes are highly desirable for collectors, investors, and admirers of Japanese cultural history.