Japan mints a new 500-yen coin

The Bank of Japan minted a new 500-yen coin Aug. 1.

The central bank has inscribed the letters "500 yen" between the two "0"s to prevent counterfeit coins from being circulated. The former 500-yen coin, which was identical to the Korean 500-won piece in size, was replaced as Korean coins were frequently used in vending machines around Japan.