History of Singapore's Currency

Orchid series notes

In 1679, the Singapore Government issued its first series of notes - the Orchid Series. The orchids pictured on the orchid notes were chosen from their beauty and to show our country youthful freshness as a new nation. Prominent landmarks like the Istana, Empress Place and Singapore's public housing were featured on the back of the orchid notes.

Bird Series notes

In 1974, Singapore issued a new Bird series of currency notes. The Bird notes contained more security features to discourage the counterfeiters. Singapore's cultural, commercial and industrial activities were featured on the back of the Bird notes.

Ship Series Notes

Singapore issued its third series of currency notes in 1984. The series paid tribute to the merchant ships which made Singapore one of the world busiest ports. The Ship series portrayed the various vessels which had been plying the waters of Singapore from historic times till then. It started with the humble trading vessels of the early days and ended with the modern bulk carries. On the back of the notes were scenes showing Singapore's achievements in communication, housing, defence and port management.

Themes of portrait series

To honour the late President Yusof bin Ishak, the new series of currency notes featured his portrait as the main theme. Hence, the new notes are known as the portrait series. The design on each denomination also carries a different secondary theme linked to Yusof bin Ishak's life.

Foreign Currencies

China - Yuan

Korea - Won

Philippines - Peso

Thailand - Thai Baht

Properties of ideal currency

Light and easy to carry

Fireproof

Waterproof

My mother's favourite series

My mother likes the orchid series because she likes the beauty of the orchids pictured on the orchid notes.