Ukrainian-born US biochemist who was awarded a Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1952 for his discovery of streptomycin, the first antibiotic effective against tuberculosis. He coined the word antibiotic for bacteria-killing chemicals derived from micro-organisms.
The mon, the central red disc, is called Hi-no-maru or sun-disc. The disc is set slightly towards the hoist. White symbolizes honesty and purity. Effective date: 5 August 1854.