Reverse design: Oura Cathedral and Camellias. This Western-style building, constructed in 1864, is the oldest extant church building in Japan, and has been designated as a National Treasure. It is also the historical site where the existence of hidden Christians (kirishitan), members of a community that had secretly practiced its faith throughout the approximately 250-year period from the 16th century to the mid-19th century when Christianity was strictly prohibited, was rediscovered when they confessed their faith, an event regarded as miraculous in the history of world religions. It is one of the sites comprising the Churches and Christian Sites in Nagasaki, which were proposed for inclusion on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites in 2015. Camellias: The official flower of Nagasaki Prefecture, camellias are familiar to many as the prefectural symbol. Wild Japanese camellias (Camellia japonica) are widespread in the Goto Islands in particular, and they are one of the leading sources for camellia oil production in Japan. Common obverse design of 1000 yen silver coin: Snow crystals, moon and cherry blossoms.
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