Singapore's currency journey began in 1819 when Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles established Singapore as a free port. Track the journey, from the variety of currencies used for trade in the 19th century, the introduction of the Straits Settlements Dollars, to the creation of a common currency.

Singapore's currency evolved from a variety of currencies used during our founding years, to a simple joint currency system, culminating in one national Singapore Currency.

The story of Singapore's growth and success is represented through iconic motifs printed on the front of our nation's currency notes - the Orchid, the Bird, the Ship and the Portrait series.

The Straits Settlements dollars were issued from 1899 as a measure to provide economic stability to British possessions in Malaya, and to phase out the less stable commercial banknotes.

In the 1950s, the British territories in Malaya and Borneo decided these territories would issue a common currency - the Malaya and British Borneo note.

Learn more about some of the commemorative notes and coins issued by MAS to mark some of Singapore's significant national events and achievements.