Types of nostalgic Showa-era money: currencies you should know and how they have changed
Showa-era money is packed with fascinating history, featuring denominations and portraits that differ from those used today.
As times changed, the types and values of currency evolved, serving as a mirror reflecting everyday life and the economy of the period.
In this article, we’ll clearly introduce the kinds of currency used in the Showa era and how they changed over time.
Some forms of money are now rarely seen, so this might bring back nostalgic memories.
Of course, those who didn’t live through that era or who are simply interested in history can enjoy it as well.
- [Nostalgic Showa Fashion] The changing trends that feel both nostalgic and fresh
- Nostalgic foods of the Showa era. Let’s trace the memorable flavors and the memories they evoke.
- [For Seniors] Nostalgic! Showa-Era Quizzes Recommended for Reminiscence Therapy
- A must-see for the Showa generation! Nostalgic popular snacks from the old days
- The nostalgic world of Showa-era films. Revisiting masterpieces that linger in the heart.
- A nostalgic feature on Showa-era magazines: looking back at the popular magazines of the time.
- [For Seniors] Recommended for Brain Training! Nostalgic Showa-Era Quiz
- Nostalgic ice cream from the Showa era. From today’s classic staples to old-time favorites.
- [Nostalgic Memories] Popular Menu Items from Showa-Era School Lunches
- Nostalgic cars from the Showa era: A special feature on memorable classic cars spotted on street corners
- [For Seniors] Nostalgic quizzes that bring back memories! Showa-era entertainment and sports questions
- A roundup of nostalgic Showa-era home appliances, including rare ones you don’t see anymore!
- Have fun with classic Showa-era games! Simple yet profoundly engaging traditional pastimes
Types of nostalgic Showa-era money: currencies to know and how they changed (11–20)
Prince Shōtoku 100-yen note
A 100 yen that isn’t a coin! Introducing the Prince Shōtoku 100-yen note.
Prince Shōtoku has appeared on banknotes of various denominations, and he was also featured on the 100-yen note.
It was issued on February 25, 1946 (Shōwa 21) and was withdrawn from circulation on June 5, 1956 (Shōwa 31).
For roughly ten years, it served as the 100-yen note essential to everyday life.
The reverse side appears to depict Hōryū-ji, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
You might even have a 100-yen note tucked away at home.
In conclusion
In the Showa era, there were types of currency different from those of the Heisei and Reiwa eras.
The designs of coins and banknotes vividly reflected the spirit of their times and were closely connected to people’s daily lives.
Learning about the history of Japanese currency can lead to new discoveries and bring back memories of those days.


