Japanese Ten Rupiah Banknote

This 10-rupiah banknote was issued by the Japanese government during its occupation of the Dutch East Indies in World War II. The reverse, printed in purple, shows mirrored seated figures in cross-legged positions on either side. The inscription “Dai Nippon Teikoku Seihu” (Government of the Empire of Japan) asserts Japanese authority, while the use of local currency units aimed to normalize occupation rule. Such banknotes were part of Japan’s broader strategy to control the economy, replace Dutch financial systems, and reinforce imperial power through everyday transactions.