Malaysian Banknotes

4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes - Commemorative Set

2011-12-28T22:40:00.018+08:00

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has launched the commemorative banknotes of 4th series of Malaysian Banknotes. It has been long waited for many collectors. However, to purchase a set of this newly launched banknotes, one has to queue for a long period of time especially during the first and second launching day.

Like many collectors, I am one of them whom patiently queueing up in order to get a set of this newly launched series of Malaysian Banknotes. BNM has imposed restriction to repeated buyers and only allow one to purchase 1 set of full set of 4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes, 5 set for each of RM1 & RM5 and RM20 commemorative banknotes.

The theme of the 4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes - 'Distinctively Malaysia' has truly reflected the uniqueness of our country's diverse culture, heritage and nature. It also features traditional expressions in art and craft, natural wonders, flora and fauna, economy and tradition. Personally, I feel that this a great series of Malaysian Banknotes because it reveals what Malaysia has.

The 4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes

Release of 4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes by BNM

2011-12-28T21:23:00.008+08:00

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has announced the introduction of new series of Malaysian Banknotes through its press statement on 21 December 2011. It was official launched by Prime Minister of Malaysia. This 4th series of Malaysian Banknotes consists of denomination of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20 and RM100 which will be circulated in second half of 2012. The earlier issued or circulated RM50 is part of the new series. RM1 and RM5 are issued in form of polymer notes.

The 4th series of Malaysian Banknotes draws its inspiration from the distinctive features of Malaysia, incorporating elements of the country's natural treasures, culture and heritage. Themed 'Distinctively Malaysia', the banknotes features traditional expressions in the art and craft, natural wonders, flora and fauna and the economy.

In addition, this new series of banknote has Incorporated enhanced security features in line with the latest advancements in banknote technology. The security features for the new banknotes include shadow image, clear window, watermark portrait with pixel and highlighted numerals, colour shifting security thread, micro lens thread, perfect see-through register, coloured glossy patch for public recognition. Other features include tactile identification which enables the visually impaired to identify and distinguish the different denominations.

In conjunction with the official launched of the 4th series of Malaysian Banknotes, the BNM is issuing the commemorative banknotes for collection. The are three types of commemorative banknotes issued as following:-

A collection of two banknotes (RM1 and RM5 denomination) - 500,000 sets priced at RM15.00 each.

A collection of a single banknote (RM20 denomination) - 500,000 sets priced at RM30.00 each.

A collection of six banknotes (RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50 and RM100 denominations) - 50,000 sets priced at RM300.00 each. For each set of this collection, all the banknote denominations will carry the same serial number.

The obverse side of the 4th series of banknotes retain the portrait of the first Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the national flower Rosa-sinensis hibiscus (known locally as the 'Bunga Raya'), the face value of the banknote, the words 'Bank Negara Malaysia' as the issuing authority of the banknotes and patterns of traditional woven fabric the 'songket' which are in the background and edges of the banknote to reflect traditional Malaysian textile handicraft and embroidery. Other features include the tactile identification for the visual impaired, watermark portrait with pixel and highlighted numerals.

The reverse side of the 4th series of banknotes illustrate the different elements of nature, tradition, culture, flora, fauna and the economy that are distinctively Malaysian. This series of banknotes also retain the Bank Negara Malaysia logo, serial numbers, Jawi wordings and songket weave patterns on the reverse side of the banknotes.

The motifs for each denomination are as follows:-

RM100 - Mount Kinabalu and pinnacles rock formations of Gunung Api valley

RM50 - Oil Palm and Biotechnology

RM20 - The Hawksbill and Leatherback Turtle

RM10 - Rafflesia

RM5 - Rhinoceros Hornbill

RM1 - Wau Bulan' (Moon Kite)

For further information of the newly launched series of Malaysian Banknotes, please visit the official website of THE NEW SERIES OF MALAYSIAN BANKNOTES by BNM. You can find detail description of each denomination banknotes and a video clips that reveals the new series of Malaysian Banknotes.

4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes RM20 Commemorative

2011-12-28T20:40:00.001+08:00

RM20 is back for the 4th Series after it was discontinued in 3rd Series of the Malaysian Banknotes. According to BNM, the reintroduction of RM20 denomination is meet public's need for an intermediary denomination between the RM10 and the RM50 denomination. This is for the convenience of the public in meeting the needs for payments.

The reverse side of the RM20 banknote features two of the most well-known species of sea turtles endemic to Malaysian waters - the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). The two turtles were chosen to represent the rich and colourful marine life found in our tropical waters. The Hawsbill is easily identified by its curved beak and scaly shell while the Leatherback has a leathery skin and seven ridges on its shell. These gentle turtles are a reminder that their existence rests in the delicate balance of human activity and marine life conservation.

4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes - RM20 Commemorative

4th Series of Malaysian Banknotes RM1 & RM5 Commemorative

2011-12-28T20:38:00.000+08:00

The two newly launched polymer banknotes in 4th Series are RM1 and RM5 denomination. According to BNM the introduction or RM1 polymer banknote is because of polymer banknote has an extended life cycle and most suitable for a lower denomination which has a high usage.

The RM1 polymer banknote features kite flying which is a popular sport in Malaysia especially in Kelantan and Terengganu. Kite flying is also traditionally a celebration of a good harvest which brings together the local communities in these states. Amongst the best known and most iconic Malaysian kites s the 'Wau Bulan' or Moon Kite which is features on the new RM1. The Wau Bulan, which is handed crafted from bamboo and paper, is also a popular decorative item that adorns the walls of Malaysian homes.

The RM5 polymer banknote features the Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros), one of the largest and most magnificent hornbill species in the world. Found in low densities throughout various rainforests in the country, this beautiful, broad-winged and long tailed forest bird plays an important role in the customs and traditional ceremonies of Sarawak which is known as 'Bumi Kenyalang' or Land of Hornbills. Hornbill is also seen as a symbol of strength and courage by the native communities of Sarawak.

4th Series of Malaysia Banknote - RM 1 and RM 5 Polymer Banknote

Speciment Banknote Under Bank Negara Tanah Melayu

2011-10-22T00:50:00.009+08:00

One thing that I have learned during my recent visit to Money Museum at Sasana Kijang is that there was a series of specimen banknotes printed under the Central Bank of Malaya (Bank Negara Tanah Melayu) in 1950s by a British printer but were never confirmed and released.

If we can recall the history, the authority to issue currencies is vested under the The Central Bank of Malaya Ordinance 1958, which formed the Central Bank of Malaya (Bank Negara Tanah Melayu) in January 1959. However, the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British Borneo continued to issue currencies until June 1967.

Specimen banknote under Bank Negara Tanah Melayu

Therefore, I believe many of the guide books or reference books have not mentioned the existence of the these banknotes which was intended to be issued under Bank Negara Tanah Melayu. One might have a very rare change to see them unless you are in this gallery.

Specimen banknotes

There are other specimens banknotes displayed. For instance the first series of RM100 not was printed without the portrait of DYMM Yang Di-Pertuan Agong. Others were printed adopting the similar concept or design from the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British Borneo. But none of them were successfully gone through it.

BNM Money Museum

2011-10-21T21:56:00.014+08:00

I recently made another trip to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Money Museum or Sasana Kijang located at Jalan Tun Hussien Onn, Kuala Lumpur after its official opening by Prime Minister in September 2011. Indeed, I found that it is a very interesting museum or gallery that one should visit to understand the development of currency in this country.

The money museum or numismatic gallery displays chronological currencies in Malaysia, starting from early currencies used in Malay states and Borneo island to the recent currency issued by Bank Negara Malaysia. You can find many early currencies such as tin coins or tin block currency issued by various Malay states. Besides tin, there are gold coins which formally known as mas or kupang. Of course there are also coins displayed from the Malacca Sultanate in mid-15th century.

Main Entrance of Numismatic Gallery located at second floor.

Other than currencies from the Malay states, the gallery also collect wide range of currencies during colonial rule. Among them are the Portuguese, Dutch, British and Japanese Occupational currencies. The gallery also displays many currency of the British Government in the Straits Settlement, the British rule in Sarawak and North Borneo, the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British Borneo.

Early Malay states' coins display

The British Occupational Currency

The gallery is not complete without the current series of Malaysian currency issued by BNM from 1967 until now. A complete series of Malaysian coins and banknotes are available for viewing from First Series to its current Fourth Series. You also have a change to take a closer look at a complete series of commemorative coins issued by BNM.

A complete series of Malaysian Banknotes

Before leaving the gallery, you definitely do not want to missout a special section that display the currency around the world. These world currencies are alphabetically arranged and most of these notes are specimen note issued by central banks.

World Currency Notes

This museum or gallery is free admission and I strongly suggest coin and banknote collectors to pay it a visit. It is worth spending some time there, you might encounter some collections that you have not seen before. For those who want to know more about the development of our country currencies, this gallery provides all.

Sasana Kijang - Money Musuem and Art Gallery

2011-09-18T10:08:00.004+08:00

A press statement was released by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) on 14 September 2011 in conjunction with the official launching of Sasana Kijang by the Prime Minister, Y.A.B. Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak.

Sasana Kijang is a realization of BNM's aspiration to establish a centre of excellence in knowledge and learning in central banking and finance. It is also a home to the international Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB), an international organization for the setting of prudential standard of the Islamic Finance and the SEACEN Centre, a regional learning and research centre for central banks in South East Asia.

Prime Minister taking a look at world currencies on display at Sasana Kijang during the launching day. Photo from Btimes.

In addition to the training facilities, offices and conference halls, Sasana Kijang with a built up area of 1.09 million sq. ft. also hosts the BNM Knowledge and Management Centre and BNM Museum and Art gallery which is open to the public in October 2011.

The words 'Sasana' is derived from Sanskrit and describes a site, centre, building or arena where communities gather for meetings. While the 'Kijang' is BNM's official logo. The Sasana Kijang's architectural concept is inspired from the shape of the Cowrie shell, a popular form of money in the Malay peninsular during the 3rd century. Its external building facade derived from the geometric patterns of traditional Malaysian songket motifs, reflecting the hard woven design.

The external facade of "Sasana Kijang', an modern architectural design

Located opposite the Memorial Tunku Abdul Rahman at Jalan Tun Husssein Onn, the Sasana Kijang building adopted modern architectural design with full glazing and curtain walling. It allows the natural light ventilation throughout most corner of the building. I am impress with the building concept and its modern architectural design.

Sasana Kijang located at Jalan Tun Hussein Onn, opposite of Memorial Tunku Abdul Rahman.

A few days prior to the official opening of 'Sasana Kijang', I was attending a course around the area and managed to pay the building a visit during the break. At that time, most of the areas in the building are already in operational except a small corner was still in final stage of renovation. I could not figure out the exact location of Money Museum despite talking to the security personal. But I will definitely pay them a visit again.

For numismatists or collectors, I am pretty sure that this has been long waited for since the closure of Money Museum and Museum Shop at BNM in July 2007. And finally, it is back again.

Commemorative Coins for Malaysia's New Third Coins Series

2011-07-25T21:54:00.013+08:00

Another exciting day for coin collectors with the official launched of the new Third Series of the Malaysian coins which will be available for circulation in early 2012. Tan Sri Dr. Zeti Akhtar Aziz, governor of Bank Negara Malasyia, launched these commemorative coins which come in the denominations of 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen and 50 sen.

The new coins series draws inspiration from distinctive features that define the nation's rich culture and heritage. The design motifs were crafted in the form of nature, flora and fauna and traditional handicraft which is found in Malaysia.

This series of new coins are smaller and lighter compare to previous two series, making its more user-friendly for the public. The yellow and silver coloured coins and the edge designs enable the public and also the visually impaired to identify and distinguish the different denominations. The new series of coins embodies the latest advancements in minting technology which incorporates improved counterfeit resistance security features. The new metal alloy used for minting has enhanced durability against wear and corrosion.

Bank Negara Malaysia will make available 500,000 sets of the commemorative coins (Brilliant Uncirculated) comprising all the coin denominations with special packaging and to be sold in stages to the public at RM 10.00 per set.

These coins will be available for sale from 26 July 2011 at Bank Negara Malaysia's headquarters (BNMLINK) and its branches located in Pulau Pinang, Johor Bahru, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.

The 3rd Series of Malaysian Coins

The motif for the 5 sen, 10 sen and 20 sen denomination features fourteen dots representing the thirteen States and the Federal Territory and (with exception of the 50 sen coin) five horizontal lines representing the five principles of the 'Rukun Negara' (national pillars).

The motifs for each domination are as follows:-

50 sen - Sulur Kacang

20 sen -Bunga Melur

10 sen - Orang Asli Motif

5 sen - Destar Siga

The reverse of all coins, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen and 50 sen features the same motifs i.e. the hibiscus which is the national flower and numerals indicating the year of minting, the face value of the coin and the words 'Bank Negara Malaysia' as the issuing authority of the coins.

Further information of the Third Series of Malaysian Coins is available at Bank Negara Website.

The RM500 and RM1000 Note

2011-07-03T22:37:00.009+08:00

Interesting facts on RM500 and RM1000 notes to share with collectors.

On May 1999, Bank Negara Malaysia had issued an reminder to the public that effective on 1 July 1999 the currency notes of RM500 and RM1000 denominations (2nd Series of Malaysian Banknotes) will be demonetized and shall cease to be legal tender. This was mainly due to the Asian monetary crisis of 1997 whereby huge amounts of Malaysian currency were taken out of the country to be traded in these notes.

In the recent answer given by the Deputy Finance Minister to the Parliament, he has pointed out that there are still 150,599 and 26,018 pieces of RM500 and RM1000 still have yet to be "recalled" by BNM. In other words, a total amount of RM75,299,500.00 of RM500 and RM26,018,000.00 of RM1000 have been ceased to be legal tender.

As of 30 January 2011, BNM has withdrawn 92.4% of RM500 and 99.4% of RM1000 note.

2nd Series of RM500

2nd Series of RM1000

New Series of Malaysian Banknotes and Coins in 2011

2011-05-25T22:02:00.005+08:00

On 23rd May 2011, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) announced that a new series of design of Malaysian banknotes and coins will be issued in early 2011, an exercise that is undertaken every 12 years.

The theme of the design of this series of currency will include features that are distinctively Malaysia. It will also have enhanced security elements in line with the latest advancements in technology for currency notes.

The new fourth series design of banknotes will be features in the denominations of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20 and RM100. The current design of RM50 banknote issued in December 2007 to commemorate Malaysia's 50th anniversary of Independence will remain in circulation.

The new coins are the third in the series for denominations of 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen and 50 sen. This new series of banknotes and coins will co-circulated with the existing series until the latter are gradually withdraw from the market.

As part of the effort to increase public awareness on the new currency series, Bank Negara Malaysia will issue the commemorative coins for the third series and unveil the new fourth series banknotes design in the third quarter of 2011.

Collectors, get yourself prepare!

RM1 Replacement Note ZAB

2011-02-15T11:24:00.006+08:00

Soon after the release of three alphabets prefix i.e. AAA by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) in 2010, the replacement notes have also followed with the three alphabets prefix i.e. ZAA. And recently, the ZAB replacement notes also release to the market.

There is an obvious discrepancy between the ZAA and ZAB. Noted that the font size used for ZAB is slightly bigger than ZAA. In ZAB replacement note, you will notice that the prefix font size is bigger than the first numeric font i.e. 'ZAB' has a bigger font size than '0'. However, you will not find this in ZAA replacement note.

3rd Series RM1 ZAB Replacement Note.

RM10 Replacement Note ZE

2011-02-15T09:52:00.005+08:00

This is just to share a piece of ZE replacement note received in daily transaction. Many times, you need no spend extra bulks or pay premium to own a piece of replacement note. They just appear in front of you without notifying you. However, it is usually hard to discover a UNC replacement note in your daily transaction. Unless you are so lucky to withdraw them fresh from ATM machine or it appears in your new stack of money that you exchange from bank.

RM10 Repalcement Note ZE

RM50 ZB Repalcement Note

2011-02-15T09:05:00.003+08:00

For those collectors whom have read my earlier postings by now should be aware that this 4th series of RM50 replacement note that carry the prefix ZB is meant for replacement on those notes that do not carry any 50th anniversary logo i.e. prefix AF onwards.

Only replacement note ZA has 50th anniversary logo on the reserve side of the note. Therefore ZA note is replacement for prefix AA to AE.

RM50 Replacement Note with Prefix ZB

4th Series - RM50 Banknote with Stamp in Folder

2010-11-21T12:00:00.007+08:00

As most of us are aware that the first 20,000 pieces of 4th Series of RM50 banknote comes with the serial number of AA0000001 to AA0020000 are with golden trim and a folder. However, the recent market survey has discovered that the similar folder has been reprinted and they are sold with AA note that comes with silver trim (Serial number AA0020001 and above).

There are also creative dealers that have Incorporated the RM50 banknote stamp that launched in January 2010 by POS Malaysia into the folder. The overall package looks attractive as the stamps, banknote and folder carry the same theme.

However, one must be able to differential the original folder that comes with premium banknote. The value of this reproduction folder has to depend on its banknote and, or stamp that come with it. After all, it is the banknote or stamp value that will appreciate.

A complete 4th Series of RM50 folder comes with AA note and stamp.

Malaysia Coins & Banknotes 2010

2010-11-20T22:35:00.006+08:00

The first edition of Malaysia Coins and Banknotes 2010 edited by Peter Eu and Ben Chiew and published by Eureka Metro Sdn Bhd is now available in the market. It is a very useful pocket guide book for collectors whom are interested in collecting Malaysian coins and banknotes.

The cover of Malaysia Coins and Banknotes 2010 Pocket Guide Book

The 153 pages guide book provides information for both coins and banknotes. It is written in both Bahasa Malaysia and English language. The guide book is divided into two main sections namely coins and banknotes. The coins section covers first series circulation coins, second series circulation coins, commemorative coins, coins in education program and bullion coins from 1967 to 2010.

The second part of guide book mainly focus on banknotes started from first series to current fourth series which was issued by Bank Negara Malaysia from 1967 to 2010. The guide book also covers commemorative banknotes issued within this period of time.

The content of the guide books illustrate the banknotes and coins.

The coin and banknote images illustrated in this guide book are high quality. I notice that most of the banknote images used for this guide book are specimen banknotes which carried a very unique serial number i.e. A/1 000000 or AA 0000000.

Besides the current update on coin and banknote prices, the guide book also provides technical specification or short description of coins and banknotes which are useful for collectors. If you are looking for post independence coins and banknotes, this guide book is highly recommended to you.

This guide book is offered at RM28. Many banknote dealers do carry the stock. One can purchase through Numis Coins and Notes located at LG22 & 23 Maju Junction Mall, 1001 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.

19th Edition of Standard Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Coin & Paper Money

2010-11-20T21:13:00.005+08:00

The release of 19th Edition of Standard Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Coin & Paper Money in June 2010 was in the conjunction with the 50th Anniversary Celebration of International Stamp & Coin Sdn Bhd which was founded by Mr. Steven Tan in 1960. Congratulation and best wishes to him and his company!

The 19th Edition of Standard Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei Coin and Paper Money

This catalogue is divided into two main sections which include paper money and coin. The first part of catalogue provides information of the paper money from Brunei, British North Borneo, Malaya, Malaya and British Borneo, Malaya Japanese Occupation and its Propaganda Issues, Malaysia, Sarawak, Straits Settlement and Singapore in alphabetical order.

Besides the Malaya Japanese Occupation notes, it also gives additional information and images of notes on Burma Japanese Occupation, Netherlands East Indies Japanese Occupation, Oceania Japanese Occupation and Philippines Japanese Occupation.

The guide book also covers the Federal Malay States (F.M.S) War Loan Bond Certificates and Coupons, Coagulant Units Coupons, Malaya Private Paper Currency, Malaya Rubber Export Coupons, Sarawak Rubber Export Coupons and Singapore Rubber Export Coupons.

Biography of Steven Tan and Brief History of International Stamp & Coin Sdn Bhd

One thing that I find this catalogue interesting is that the catalogue also displays some of the Malaya Unissued Proof and Colour Trial Specimen which I believe many of us might have not seen them before. These notes are extremely rare and they were only appeared in auction catalogue.

The second half of the catalogue provides information of coins. Coins that covered under this section include British North Borneo and its token, British Trade Dollar, Brunei, Malaya, Malaya & British North Borneo, Malaysia, Penang Tokens, Sarawak, Singapore Merchant and Private Tokens, Singapore Gold Bullion Coins and Strait Settlements.

However, the coin images illustrated in this section is without colour. In fact, some of the coin images used was inherited from its very earlier publication. Perhaps, this can be improved in upcoming edition.

Part of the contents of the guide book

Apart from the valuable information and current update of paper money and coins, collectors can also find useful sources especially in identifying the coin and banknote dealer in Malaysia and Singapore. Many of the dealers have their advertisement in this guide book. They do provide their contact to serve you.

Another useful information price analysis of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei banknotes over 25 years from 1976 to 2000. The banknote prices were tabulated and compiled through the 1st edition to 15th edition of the catalogue.

This catalogue can be purchased from International Stamp & Coin Sdn Bhd located at Lot 2.4 & 2.5 of Pertama Shopping Complex in Kuala Lumpur. The retail price is RM78.

1st Edition of Coin & Paper Money Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei

2010-11-20T19:53:00.006+08:00

This is the 1st Edition of Coin & Paper Money Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei form 1845 to 1976. This guide book was edition by Mr. Steven Tan and was published in 1976. It was one of the very few guide book available to collector back then.

The cover of 1st Edition of Coin & Paper Money Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

This copy of guide book is given as a souvenir with the purchase of newly release 19th Edition Standard Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Coin & Paper Money. Printed in black and white, this 72 pages guide book covers the coins and paper money of the Straits Settlements, Malaya, Malaya and British Borneo, Malaysia, British North Borneo, Brunei, Sarawak and Singapore.

Personally I am happy that this guide book is made available to the collectors as it provides useful reference on the market price. Your will amaze to see that many of the coin and banknote prices have rapidly appreciated through out recent 20 or 30 years.

Content of Coins & Paper Money Catalogue edited by Mr. Steven Tan

New Release of Malaysia Banknote and Coin Guide Book 2010

2010-11-03T21:08:00.002+08:00

This year seems to be a busy year for publication of Malaysian banknote and coin catalogue. Through the recent information collected, it is observed that there are at least three new publications have been released to the market. Collector now has more choices to make reference on their collection with the new guide books make available to them.

One of the pioneer in Malaysian banknote and coin catalogue, Mr. Steven Tan, has released the 19th Edition of "Standard Catalogue of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Coin and Paper Money" middle of the year. This catalogue consists of 318 pages of color and quality printing that illustrate the Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei banknotes and coins started from 1845 to 2010. The catalogue provides information such as new pricing, issue year, banknotes size and coins mintage for collector reference.

Mr. KN Boon has also released its new guide book through his latest publication of the 5th Edition of "Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore Banknotes and Coins". This guide book give a complete educational reference for Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore banknotes and coins that cover from 1786 to September 2010. The guide book has a total of 453 pages compare to 437 pages in its 4th edition.

Another famous author in banknote and coin guide book, Mr. Peter Eu and Mr. Ben Chiew have join the battle by introducing their 1st publication of "Malaysia Banknotes and Coins 2010". This newly introduced catalogue consists of 153 pages with colourful images of Malaysian banknotes and coins. It provides information on circulation and commemorative banknotes and coins with reference prices.

I am a guide book collector. I love collecting them because they provide valuable information and current update on my collection. I surely will want to grab all the above guide books. I will share with you my review of these guide books once they are on my bookshelf.

125th Anniversary of Jabatan Ukur Dan Pemetaan Malaysia (JUPEM) Commemoratve Coin

2010-10-29T22:08:00.001+08:00

Bank Negara Malaysia launched three types of commemorative coins to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Jabatan Ukur dan Pemetaan Malaysia (JUPEM) on 14 oCTOBER 2010. The commemorative coins were launched by YAB Tan Sri Dato' Haji Muhyiddin bin Mohd. Yassin, Deputy Prime Minister, at Dewan Perdana FELDA, Jalan Maktab, Kuala Lumpur.

The three types of commemorative coins are RM100 Gold Commemorative Coin (proof), RM10 Silver Commemorative Coin (proof) and RM1 Nordic Gold Brilliant Uncirculated (B.U) Commemorative Coin.

The obverse of these coins feature a surveyor of JUPEM carrying out measuring works with the theodolite, a device used to measure angular values in a traverse or network between survey marks. It is also used for defining the direction of lines of sight. The name "Jabatan Ukur dan Pemetaan Malaysia" appears on the lower circumference of the coins, whilst "125 Tahun" appears at the top of the coins.

The reverse of these coins illustrate the official logo of JUPEM. At the upper circumference, the words "Bank Negara Malaysia" appear as the issuing authority of the commemorative coins. The years "1885-2010" appear below the logo and the denomination is at the lower circumference of the coin.

RM100 Gold Commemorative Coin (proof)

Technical Specification

Gold Commemorative Coin (proof)

Type : Gold Proof
Alloy : Gold (Au999.9)
Face Value (RM) : 100
Selling Price (RM) : 1,200
Mintage Quantity (piece/set) : 150
Diameter (mm) : 22.00
Weight (gram) : 7.96
Shape : Round with milled edge

Silver Commemorative Coin (proof)

Type : Silver Proof
Alloy : Silver (Ag92.5)
Face Value(RM) : 10
Selling Price(RM) : 150
Mintage Quantity (piece/set) : 300
Diameter(mm) : 35.70
Weight(gram) : 21.00
Shape : Round with milled edge

Nordic Gold Brilliant Uncirculated (B.U) Commemorative Coin

Type : Nordic Gold (B.U.)
Alloy : Cu89 Zn5 Al5 Sn1
Face Value (RM) : 1
Selling Price(RM) : 10
Mintage Quantity (piece/set) : 10,000
Diameter (mm) : 30.00
Weight (gram) : 8.80
Shape : Round with milled edge

50th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Bunga Raya as the National Flower Commemorative Coin

2010-10-29T21:35:00.002+08:00

Bank Negara Malaysia issued three types of commemorative coins to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the proclamation of the Bunga Raya as the National Flower on 30 September 2010. It was launched by Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Almarhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah at Kompleks Perbadanan Kraftangan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.

These commemorative coins consist of RM100 Gold Commemorative Coin (proof), RM10 Silver Commemorative Coin (proof) and RM 1 Nordic Gold Brilliant Uncirculated (B.U) Commemorative Coin.

The obverse of the coins feature the image of the Bunga Raya as the National Flower with the words "50 Tahun" at the upper circumference. The years "1960 - 2010" appear below the Bunga Raya and the words "Bunga Raya Bunga Kebangsaan" at the lower circumference of the coin.

The reverse of the coins feature the map of Malaysia with the Malaysian flag as the background. The upper circumference displays the words "Bank Negara Malaysia" with the denomination below it. "Jabatan Warisan Negara" as organiser of the ceremony for the proclamation anniversary appears on the lower circumference of the coins.

Gold Commemorative Coin (proof)

Silver Commemorative Coin (proof)

Nordic Gold Brilliant Uncirculated (B.U) Commemorative Coin

Technical Specifications

Gold Commemorative Coin (proof)

Type : Gold Proof
Alloy : Gold (Au999.9)
Face Value (RM) : 100
Selling Price(RM) : 1,200
Mintage Quantity (piece/set) : 150
Diameter(mm) : 22.00
Weight(gram) : 7.96
Shape : Round with milled edge

Silver Commemorative Coin (proof)

Type : Silver Proof

Alloy : Silver (Ag92.5)

Face Value (RM) : 10

Selling Price(RM) : 150

Mintage Quantity (piece/set) : 400

Diameter(mm) : 35.70

Weight(gram) : 21.00

Shape : Round with milled edge

Nordic Gold Brilliant Uncirculated (B.U) Commemorative Coin

Type : Nordic Gold (B.U.)

Alloy : Cu89 Zn5 Al5 Sn1

Face Value (RM) : 1

Selling Price(RM) : 10

Mintage Quantity (piece/set) : 10,000

Diameter(mm) : 30.00

Weight(gram) : 8.80

Shape : Round with milled edge

5 Ringgit Prime Minister Commemorative Coin

2010-10-17T18:39:00.003+08:00

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) issued 1st Prime Minister Commemorative Coins in 1971 that feature Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, Father of Independence Malaysia. These commemorative coins were released in two different types i.e. 5 Ringgit copper-nickel coin and 100 Ringgit .917 gold coin.

A total of 2,000,000 mintage of 5 Ringgit copper-nickel coins were released and 100,000 mintage of 100 Ringgit gold coins were issued.

5 Ringgit copper-nickel commemorative coins that feature 1st Prime Minister f Malaysia - Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj.

25th Anniversary of EPF Commemorative Coin

2010-10-17T17:35:00.003+08:00

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) launched a series of commemorative coins in conjunction with the 25th Anniversary of Employees Provident Fund (EPF) in 1976. There were three types of coins issued namely 1 Ringgit Copper-Nickel coin, 25 Ringgit .925 Silver coin and 250 Ringgit .900 Gold coin.

These 25th Anniversary of EPF Commemorative Coins of RM1, RM25 Silver and RM250 Gold are also available in Proof set of 3 with limited to 1,000 sets.

25 Ringgit of .925 Silver commemorative coin issued with the conjunction of 25th Anniversary of EPF. A total of 100,000 silver coins were issued.

The 3rd Malaysia Plan Commemorative Coin

2010-10-16T13:07:00.002+08:00

The 3rd Malaysia Plan Commemorative Coins were issued in 1976 in conjunction with the introduction of the 3rd Malaysia Plan by Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak. These commemorative coins were released in two denominations namely 1 Ringgit Copper-Nickel coin and 10 Ringgit .925 Silver coin. They were minted by Franklin Mint, United State.

A total of 1,000,000 and 200,00 of 1 Ringgit Copper-Nickel and 10 Ringgit .925 Silver coins were issued in 1976. The obverse of the coin features portrait of Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak with 14 flags - Malaysia and its 13 states. The reverse depicts the coat of arm Malaysia and the 3rd Malaysia Plan was written in national language "Rancangan Malaysia Ketiga 1976 - 1980".

This is a 3rd Malaysia Plan's 10 Ringgit .925 Silver coin issued in 1976.

Coins in Clothing

2010-10-02T13:20:00.009+08:00

Coins are used in our daily transaction as a form of money. Coins which usually come with a lower-valued units are type of modern money we use as cash today to settle our bills. However, many of us might not aware that coins had been used or worn by many civilizations in centuries ago as jewelry to show their status in the community.

Coins were turned into necklaces and bracelets and worn by a person to reflect the standing in his/her community. The more coins he/she wore, the higher up they were in the society. Apart from jewelry, coins were used in clothing. Some of the old coins we encounter today have holes punched or addition round metal at the back of coins. All these alteration works to coins came with a purpose - making them fit into clothing or jewelry.

I have a few coins in my collection come with the features that I described above which make me believe that they were used as buttons in clothing. These coins were from Queen Victoria (1871 - 1901) and it is believed that people in century ago had used coins as buttons in their clothing apart from using them as medium of transaction - money.

Additional round metal welded at the back of coins to make them as buttons.

Obverse side of coins.

Malaya and British Borneo - Queen Elizabeth II

2010-10-02T12:28:00.010+08:00

The Malaya and British Borneo currency was issued by the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British Borneo from 1952 to 1967. The currency was widely circulated in the states of Malaya, British North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, Singapore and Brunei.

The Malaya and British Borneo coins were introduced from 1953 to 1961. The obverse of this series of coins bore the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II while the reverse has the inscription of "Malaya and British Borneo".

There were five denominations in this series of coin namely 1, 5, 10, 2o and 50 cents. The 5 and 10 cents coins were first issued in 1953 and followed by the 20 and 50 cents in 1954. Subsequently 1 cent square bronze coin was released in 1956. In 1962, a new design of 1 cent coin (round shape) was issued without the royal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The intention is to reflect the spirit of a newly independent nation after Malaya achieved its independence in 1957.

Coins issued by the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British Borneo from 1953 to 1961 under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.