Bank Negara Malaysia is issuing commemorative coins to mark the new Third Series of the Malaysian coins which will be available for circulation early next year. Launched today by the Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia, the commemorative coins issued are 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 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.

Detailed specifications of the coins are as per Attachment 1.

Coins Design

• The Obverse Side of the Coin

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

• The motifs for each domination are as follows:

• The Reverse Side of the Coin

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.

The new series of coins are legal tender and will co-circulate with the existing series. The existing series will be gradually phased out.

Bank Negara Malaysia is working closely with financial institutions, businesses and cash handling vendors to ensure a smooth transition to the new series. Vendors of cash handling machines will be given six months to calibrate their machines to ensure convenience for the use of the new coins.

Bank Negara Malaysia will also issue the new Fourth Series banknotes in September this year.

Sales Outlets

The commemorative coins are minted and distributed by Bank Negara Malaysia and 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.

See also:

• Launch Video on the Third Series of Malaysian Coins