The Japanese 500 yen coin is the highest denomination of Japanese yen coin in circulation.
In terms of US Dollars, 500 Japanese yen is equivalent to approximately $3.36 USD, $3.37 USD, $3.38 USD, $3.39 USD, or $3.40 USD, as of August 13, 2025.
However, the value of a 500 yen coin can differ depending on factors such as its year of mintage and its condition, especially for collectors.
While most 500 yen coins in circulation are worth their face value, some exceptions exist, particularly from the late Showa era (Emperor Hirohito’s reign).
- 1987 (Year 62) coins: Only 2,775,000 of these coins were minted, making them the lowest mintage in the series and a key date for collectors.
- 1989 (Year 64) coins: These are also popular among collectors, being the second lowest mintage of the series and notable as the last year of Emperor Showa’s reign.
These coins can fetch a premium price online and from coin dealers, depending on their condition.
The 500 yen coin was first introduced in 1982 to meet the needs of the vending machine industry and initially replaced the 500 yen banknote, which was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1994. The coin’s composition has been changed over the years to combat counterfeiting, moving from cupronickel to nickel-brass and then to the current bi-metallic design released in 2021. Older coins remain legal tender, but their metallic signature might make them incompatible with modern vending machines, [according to Wikiwand].
Is the 500 yen coin rare?
The issuance of these coins as a regular coin is really rare. The edge of 500 yen coin introduces the first special technology of the world in the field of mass-production. Helical Ridges (helically milled edge) strengthen the resistance against counterfeiting.
Is 500 yen a lot of money?
Great question! 100 yen – Equal to about $1, this coin made of nickel and copper has many uses. 100 yen coins are aptly used at 100-yen stores, and laundry and vending machines. 500 yen – Basically a $5 bill, this is the largest and most valuable of the yen coins.