Singapore, 5 July 2005...The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) today launched a set of coins to commemorate Singapore's 40 years of independence.  The commemorative coins celebrate our nation-building, the indomitable spirit of our citizens to strive for success despite tough challenges, and our unity as a multi-racial society.

2   The coin design features the official National Day Parade (NDP) 2005 logo representing a nation's aspirations and confidence as Singaporeans shape their future together.  This is the first time that the NDP logo is featured on a Singapore commemorative coin.

3   The four major races, Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian, are represented by four stylized dancers in their traditional costumes, performing together in graceful harmony.  In the background is City Hall, the venue for the 2005 National Day Parade.  A burst of fireworks above the landmark completes the celebratory mood.  The phrase "40 Years of Independence" aptly records this important milestone.

4   The obverse of the coin bears the Singapore Arms with the year-date 2005.

Limited Worldwide Mintage

5   The coins will be issued on 15 July 2005. The details of the coins are as follows:

a)  S$10 Gold Cameo Silver Proof Commemorative Coin
2.30 grams of 999.9 Fine Gold on 1 ounce (31.103 grams) of 999 Fine Silver. Coin diameter of 40.70 mm. Limited mintage of 1,200 pieces only. Issue price: S$250 (GST inclusive).

This coin consists of a pure gold insert bearing the NDP 2005 logo on a silver proof coin. This is the first Singapore National Day commemorative coin with the gold cameo feature.

b)  S$2 Silver Proof Coin
20 grams of 999 Fine Silver. Coin diameter of 38.70 mm. Mintage of 8,000 pieces. Issue price: S$55 (GST inclusive).

The NDP 2005 logo and the dazzling fireworks are presented magnificently in colour on this coin. This is the first Singapore National Day silver proof coin with colour application.

c)  S$2 Cupro-Nickel Proof-like Coin
Coin diameter of 38.70 mm. Mintage is based on demand. Issue price: S$16(GST inclusive).

The NDP 2005 logo is presented magnificently in colour on this coin. This is the first Singapore National Day cupro-nickel proof-like coin with colour application.

6   The above three coins are also available in a 3-in-1 Premium Coin Set, with a very low mintage of only 300 sets. Issue price: S$399 (GST inclusive).

Sale of Coins:

7  The coins will only be sold by The Singapore Mint.

8   Orders can be placed via the Internet at www.mint.com.sg .

9   Order forms can also be obtained from The Singapore Mint retail shops at:

• The Singapore Mint Coin Gallery
  20 Teban Gardens Crescent, Singapore 608928
  Tel: 6566 2626

• Coin City, Starhub Centre
  51 Cuppage Road #01-07, Singapore 229469
  Tel: 6339 0886

10   Mail orders must reach The Singapore Mint before 24 July 2005. Order forms can be sent to the above outlets or faxed to The Singapore Mint at 6565 2626 or 6567 2626. For enquiries, you can contact The Singapore Mint at:

• Tel: 6566 2626 / 6895 0386 during office hours;
• Ms Jemima Ho - 68950-350 (office); 91991391 (mobile); jemima.ho@singaporemint.com.sg (email)
• Mr Jason Chen - 68950-388 (office); 96814228 (mobile); jason.chen@singaporemint.com.sg (email)

(a)  $10 Gold Cameo Silver Proof Commemorative Coin
(b)  $2 Silver Proof Coin
(c)  $2 Cupro-Nickel Proof-like Coin

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