Michael Cash wrote:
> 
> On Thu, 8 Sep 2005 23:35:53 +0000 (UTC), mtfester@netMAPSONscape.net
> brought down from the Mount tablets inscribed:
> 
> >Prophet of the Way <afu@wta.att.ne.jp> wrote:
> >> The Japan Fact Sheet says:
> >
> >> > Currency:
> >> > The Japanese currency is the Yen (JPY). There are
> >> > following paper notes: 1.000, 5.000, 10.000, and coins of
> >> > 500, 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1.
> >
> >> There is also a 2000 yen note.
> >
> >And a 500 Y note, which isn't being printed, but is still in
> >circulation.
> 
> How are you defining "in circulation"?
> 
> I haven't seen one since 1985 or so.

The Bank of Japan tells you what kind of bank notes are valid. 

http://www.boj.or.jp/en/money/money_f.htm (English)

http://www.boj.or.jp/oshiete/money/q053.htm (Japanese)