1984 Japan 1000 Yen Banknote – Sōseki Natsume & Manchurian Cranes

Pick# 97b | Numista# 208263

Issued by the Bank of Japan, the 1984 1000 Yen banknote is part of the Series D—a landmark design that blends literary heritage with natural symbolism. Featuring a black serial number with double letter prefix, this variety is highly sought after by collectors for its rarity and historical significance.


Design Highlights

Obverse: Portrait of Sōseki Natsume, one of Japan’s most revered novelists, known for works like Kokoro and I Am a Cat. His image reflects Japan’s Meiji-era intellectual renaissance. The note includes bilingual text in Japanese and Roman characters.

Reverse: Two Manchurian cranes in flight, symbolizing longevity, peace, and grace—core values in Japanese culture.

Color Scheme: Blue on multicolored underprint, with fine engraving and crisp linework.



Key Specifications

Feature Description
Country Japan
Issuer Bank of Japan
Year of Issue 1984
Denomination 1000 Yen
Pick Number P# 97b
Printer National Printing Bureau (Okurasho)
Size 150 × 76 mm
Material Paper
Watermark Portrait of Sōseki Natsume
Serial Format Black ink, double letter prefix
Security Features Microprinting, watermark, intaglio printing
Demonetized Yes (officially suspended in 2007)



Why Collect This Note?

The 1984 1000 Yen note with black serial and double letter prefix is a prized variant in Japanese numismatics, ideal for:

Collectors of literary or cultural-themed currency

Fans of Japanese Meiji-era history and design

Gifts for those born in 1984 or with a passion for Japanese literature

Whether you're curating a Japan-specific collection or exploring global literary figures on currency, this note offers elegance, symbolism, and historical depth.