Japan 2,000 Yen Banknote, 2000, P-103b, UNC - AA Prefix

The Japanese 2,000 Yen banknote was originally issued in 2000 to commemorate both the 26th G8 Summit in Okinawa and the turn of the millennium. Unlike other denominations in the series, the obverse features the iconic Shureimon, a 16th-century ceremonial gate located in Naha, Okinawa. This design choice highlights a significant piece of Ryukyuan architectural heritage, marking a departure from the traditional use of portraits on the front of Japanese currency. On the reverse, the note pays tribute to Japanese literature with a scene from the classic 11th-century novel, The Tale of Genji, alongside a portrait of its author, Murasaki Shikibu. While this denomination remains legal tender, it is less frequently encountered in daily transactions compared to the 1,000 or 10,000 Yen notes, making it a unique addition for those interested in modern Japanese history and numismatics.