1942 Malaya 5 Cents Banknote – Japanese Invasion Money (Pick# M2a)

Historical Context

The 1942 5 Cents note (Pick# M2a) was issued by the Japanese Military Authority during their occupation of Malaya from 1941 to 1945. As part of Japan’s broader strategy to control Southeast Asia economically, these notes—known as Japanese Invasion Money (JIM)—were printed in large quantities to replace British colonial currency. Denominated in dollars and cents to mirror the pre-war system, they were intended for everyday use but quickly lost value due to inflation and lack of backing.

This note circulated in regions including modern-day Malaysia, Singapore, and parts of Borneo. It represents a period of intense upheaval, where currency became a tool of propaganda and control.


Design Features

Obverse: Printed in maroon ink, the note features the inscription “THE JAPANESE GOVERNMENT” and “FIVE CENTS” within a decorative border. Scripts include Latin, Chinese, and Japanese Katakana, with block letters “MT” indicating the serial control.

Reverse: Displays the denomination in guilloche patterns, with no additional imagery.

Color Scheme: Maroon and gray tones over white paper, with lithographic printing.


Specifications & Corner Data
Feature Description
Pick Number P-M2a
Denomination 5 Cents
Issuing Authority Japanese Military Authority
Year of Issue 1942
Material Paper
Size 100 × 48 mm
Printer Greater Japan Imperial Government
Watermark None
Security Features None
Reverse Guilloche pattern only
Corner Block Letters MT (normal block variant)
Languages Used Latin, Chinese, Japanese



Collector Appeal

This note is ideal for:

WWII and Pacific War collectors
Historians of Southeast Asian occupation currencies
Educational exhibits on wartime propaganda and monetary control

Despite its low denomination, the 5 Cents note offers rich historical insight into life under occupation and the fragility of imposed monetary systems.