Golden Memories
Reminisce About the Stories On Every Banknote
Singapore attained our independence as a nation in 1965. Since then, our government has issued four series of banknotes for circulation purposes, and one series for commemorative reasons.
Orchid Series
1967 to 1976
The Orchid series told the stories of how we built the foundations of our new nation.
On 9 August 1965, Singapore became an independent nation. As we embarked on our journey, Singaporeans were filled with hope, determination, and a vision for a brighter future. These were the years when our dreams began to take shape, and we rolled up our sleeves to build a home we could all be proud of. These years were marked by the creation of structures and institutions that would become the backbone of our society for years to come.
Bird Series
1976 to 1984
The Bird series showed our dreams taking shape and strides towards a brighter future.
The 1970s were a time of emerging confidence and early successes. We had laid our foundations, and now it was time to spread our wings and take flight. We were no longer merely surviving; we were beginning to assert ourselves. These years saw us achieving significant milestones, emerging stronger from our struggles, and showing promises of greater things to come.
Ship Series
1984 to 1999
The Ship series embodied our burgeoning confidence and relentless pursuit of progress.
The 1980s were years of bold ambition and global recognition. Our confidence had grown, and with it, our aspirations. Having established our foundations and taken flight, it was now time to venture beyond our shores and navigate into new horizons. We embarked on ambitious projects, showcased them globally, and made sure the world took notice of our little island nation.
Portrait Series
1999 to Present
The Portrait series painted a vision of progress measured not only in wealth and growth, but in culture, learning, and the quality of everyday life.
By the 1990s, we had achieved remarkable material success—stable growth, strong institutions, and rising living standards. Yet as our nation matured, we sought a deeper meaning of progress: one measured not only in economic output but also in the quality of life. We turned our attention to nurturing the arts and sports, developing character, and shaping a city that was both efficient and liveable. Progress came to mean the pursuit of culture, identity, and belonging, in addition to economics. These ideals found expression in the portrait of our first President Yusof Ishak, whose life and leadership championed the values we sought to continue our progress.
Commemorative Series
1990 Onwards
The commemorative series marked pivotal moments in our nation’s collective journey.
In the sweep of our short but storied history, there were moments that stood out–poignant and profound, the kind we wished to immortalise. These milestones marked the trials and triumphs of our nation, capturing how far we had come together. They were gentle reminders of the significant events that shaped us, as a young nation finding our way and as a people bound by dreams of a better future.
