Singapore, 3 July 2013… The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) today launched the 2013 Native Orchids of Singapore Coins. The coins are the third in a series that celebrates the beauty of over 200 species of orchids that once thrived in Singapore, some of which are still found in our forests today. The coins will be issued on 2 August 2013.

Coin Designs

2   The 2013 Native Orchids of Singapore Coins feature two native orchids – Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris and Dendrobium crumenatum.

i.  Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris

This orchid is characterised by its fan-shaped umbel formed by up to 10 flowers. These individual flowers, measuring 2.5 cm long and 8 mm across, form a semi-circle cluster arrangement.

The flowers are yellow with flushed red and purple highlights at the base of the petals. This species flowers throughout the year and peak in bloom during the rainy season. However, due to loss of habitat, the Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris is becoming increasingly endangered in Singapore.

ii.  Dendrobium crumenatum

Commonly known as the “Pigeon Orchid” for its strong resemblance to a flying pigeon, this orchid grows freely in lowland forest and woodlands.

It gives bloom to sweet scented flowers nine days after heavy rainstorms. Measuring at 4 cm to 5 cm across, these white flowers are highlighted with a subtle tint of yellow in the throat. This tropical orchid is one of the most common native orchids that can be seen in Singapore.

3   A portion of the circumference of each coin is semi-rimless. This is a unique feature of the coins in the series.

4   The obverse of the coin bears the Singapore Arms with the year 2013.

Limited Worldwide Mintage

5   The coins can be purchased individually or as a coin set. The details are as follows:

a) Native Orchids of Singapore 2-in-1 Coin Set

This coin set comprises two pieces of 999 Fine Silver Proof coins with colour application. Each coin weighs 1 troy ounce, has a face value of $5 and a diameter of 40.70 mm. These coins are part of the coin mintages that are sold individually. Each set is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
Mintage: 3,000 sets only

b) Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris 1oz 999 Fine Silver Proof Colour Coin

Each coin weighs 1 troy ounce, has a face value of $5 and a diameter of 40.70mm.
Mintage: 10,000 pieces only

c) Dendrobium crumenatum 1 oz 999 Fine Silver Proof Colour Coin

Each coin weighs 1 troy ounce, has a face value of $5 and a diameter of 40.70mm.
Mintage: 10,000 pieces only

d) Specially Selected Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris and Dendrobium crumenatum 1oz  999 Fine Silver Proof Colour Coin

Each coin is specially selected for its superior proof quality standard and encased in a slab capsule.
Mintage: 500 pieces per design only

Sale of Coins

6   The coins can be purchased from the Singapore Mint. For enquiries and orders, the public can contact The Singapore Mint at 6566 2626 / 6895 0288 / 6222 2486 / 6238 9890 or www.singaporemint.com .

2013 Native Orchids of Singapore 2-in-1 Coin Set

Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris 1oz 999 Fine Silver Proof Colour Coin

Dendrobium crumenatum 1oz 999 Fine Silver Proof Colour Coin

Specially Selected Bulbophyllum flabellum-veneris and
Dendrobium crumenatum 1oz 999 Fine Silver Proof Colour Coin