The Japanese cherry blossom 100 Yen coin (百円硬貨) is one of the most familiar and widely used coins in Japan. First introduced in 1967, this design remains in circulation today and is instantly recognizable for its elegant sakura (cherry blossom) motif.
Unlike earlier silver versions, the cherry blossom 100 Yen coin represents modern Japanese currency—practical, symbolic, and accessible.
When Was the Cherry Blossom 100 Yen Coin Introduced?
The cherry blossom design replaced earlier silver 100 Yen coins in 1967.
The change was driven by:
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Rising silver prices
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The need for a durable, cost-effective circulating coin
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Standardization for vending machines and everyday commerce
Since its introduction, the design has remained remarkably consistent, making it one of Japan’s longest-running coin designs.
Cherry Blossom (Sakura) Design and Meaning
The obverse of the coin features cherry blossoms, one of Japan’s most important cultural symbols.
What sakura represents:
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Beauty and renewal
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The fleeting nature of life
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Seasonal change and new beginnings
Because cherry blossoms bloom briefly each spring, they are deeply associated with impermanence and appreciation of the present moment—a theme strongly rooted in Japanese culture.
This makes the 100 Yen coin not just functional, but symbolically meaningful.
Reverse Design and Japanese Era Dating
The reverse of the cherry blossom 100 Yen coin includes:
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The denomination 百円 (100 Yen)
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The inscription 日本国 (State of Japan)
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The year of minting using the Japanese era calendar
Common eras found:
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Showa (昭和)
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Heisei (平成)
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Reiwa (令和)
This era-based dating system adds educational and collectible value, especially for non-Japanese collectors.
Metal Composition and Specifications
The modern cherry blossom 100 Yen coin is made of copper-nickel (cupronickel).
Specifications:
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Diameter: approx. 22.6 mm
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Weight: approx. 4.8 g
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Edge: Plain
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Color: Silver-gray
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Magnetic: No
Its durability makes it ideal for heavy circulation.
Is the Cherry Blossom 100 Yen Coin Still Used Today?
Yes — it is one of the most commonly used coins in Japan.
You’ll encounter it in:
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Convenience stores
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Vending machines
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Parking meters
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Public transportation ticket machines
Despite its age, the design remains fully modern and relevant.
Collecting Cherry Blossom 100 Yen Coins
Collectors are drawn to cherry blossom 100 Yen coins because they are:
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Affordable
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Easy to find
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Historically consistent
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Rich in cultural symbolism
What collectors look for:
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Earlier Showa-era examples
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Uncirculated or lightly circulated condition
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Clean surfaces and sharp blossom details
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Specific era-year combinations
Even circulated coins are popular as souvenirs and teaching pieces.
Why the Cherry Blossom 100 Yen Coin Is Popular Worldwide
Outside Japan, this coin is often purchased as:
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A souvenir
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A starter collectible
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A cultural gift
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An educational world coin
Its appeal comes from:
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A universally recognizable floral design
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Continued legal tender status
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Low cost and easy availability
Final Thoughts
The cherry blossom 100 Yen coin perfectly captures the balance between function and tradition. Still circulating decades after its introduction, it remains one of the most elegant and culturally significant modern coins in the world.