November 27, 2014 – The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) launched the 2014 Native Orchids of Singapore Coins, exclusively minted and marketed by The Singapore Mint. The coins are the fourth 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.
Singapore/ $5/ 1oz/ Fine Silver/ 40.7 mm/ Mintage: 10,000 (each coin), 3,000 sets.
Coin Designs
The 2014 Native Orchids of Singapore Coins feature two native orchids – Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi and Coelogyne rochussenii. Both orchids have been re-introduced successfully to parks and other nature areas. A portion of the circumference of each coin is semi-rimless, which is a unique feature of the coins in the series. The obverse of the coin bears the Singapore Arms with the year 2014.
The Fine Silver Proof Colour Coins can be purchased individually or as a 2-in-1 coin set.
Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi
The Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi is characterised by its star-shaped flowers, which are yellow with specks of deep maroon on them. The flowers measure about 3cm to 4cm in diameter and usually last for a long period of time. The Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi usually grows on trees in exposed lowland areas and can be found in many parts of South-East Asia.
Coelogyne rochussenii
The Coelogyne rochussenii has pale yellowish-green flowers, with the sidelobes of its white lip containing brown pigments. The lemon-scented flowers measure about 5cm in diameter. Each hanging flower spray can reach 70cm long with more than 30 flowers. Its flowers usually bloom in the morning and close partially in the evening.
For more information on these coins please visit the website of The Singapore Mint.
Click here to check out the previous issues in the series.
At Orchid’s Wiki you will find all information on the two celebrated specie, the Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi …
… and the Coelogyne rochussenii.
And if you want to buy some orchids take a look at the orchid grower’s website Toh Garden.