General News

¥1,000 Coins to Be Issued to Mark Anniversary of Beginning of Japan’s Showa Era; Shinkansen, Mr. Fuji to Be Featured

Courtesy of Finance Ministry
Motifs such as the Shinkansen and Tokyo Tower appear on the front, right, and Mt. Fuji and cherry blossoms on the back of the commemorative ¥1,000 coin.

The Yomiuri Shimbun

16:48 JST, April 22, 2026

A total of 40,000 commemorative ¥1,000 silver coins featuring symbols of Japan’s postwar reconstruction will be issued to mark the centenary of the Showa era (1926-89).

The Finance Ministry announced on Tuesday that the coins, measuring 40 millimeters in diameter and weighing 31.1 grams, will be sold for ¥34,800.

The front of the coin features color illustrations of the Shinkansen bullet train, Tokyo Tower and expressways, which symbolize Japan’s postwar reconstruction and rapid economic growth.

The back of the coin features motifs of Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms and doves of peace.

Applications to purchase the coins will be accepted via postcard or the internet starting Aug. 20. Shipping is expected to begin around mid-December.

A lottery will be conducted if the number of applications surpasses the available supply.

Detailed information is set to be released on the Japan Mint’s website after 5 p.m. on Aug. 19.