Arnold Gladson told this story about the Japanese money found at Tarawa on the WWII discussion group.1 He wrote, "On the third day, just before the division left Tarawa, we blew off the door of a fairly large safe. Among other things, Japanese occupation money came flying out of the dust and debris. We had a 'mock' payday." Arnold also explained that the bulk of this currency was, "...given away to ships company that were on the transports and asking for souvenirs."
According to Arnold, this money had been specially printed to be used in the Gilbert Islands to pay laborers, who could exchange it for a bit of tobacco or a ration of rice, can of fish, etc.... From the amount of money found the Japanese seemingly had great plans to spread throughout the Gilbert Islands.
I would be interested in hearing from any eyewitnesses to this event.
This is an example of the Japanese occupation currency. Notice what appears to be burn marks in the lower left corner. It was captured at Tarawa by Sgt. Edward Godwin who must have witnessed this event. His son, Tom provided it to "Tarawa on the Web".
Thanks again Tom!
Notes
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copyright 1999 Wheaton, Illinois
Created 22 April 1999 - Updated 9 September 2000
