Categories
Banknotes

Two Triangles

Recently, small triangles have appeared on the reverse of the $1000 Singapore banknote, in addition to the square dots spotted on other denominations. This security feature was added in early 2009, but its purpose is not revealed to the public. The two triangles are found below the word ‘Government’ on the reverse. Today, many collectors are still puzzled about the presence of such symbols.

As mentioned in our previous article, ‘there may be other shapes, such as circles, stars or triangles’. My hypothesis remains as such: The symbols represent the year of printing. In January 2009, $10 notes with one square dot appeared in circulation. In October 2009, there were $10 notes with two square dots, $100 notes with one or two square dots and $1000 notes with one square dot. In December 2009, $50 notes with one square dot appeared. In January 2010, $2 notes with two square dots are commonly seen. In February 2010, $1000 notes with two square dots are found circulating.

Based on the above, one square dot may represent the year 2008, two square dots 2009 and two triangles 2010. This is just a guess!

The first prefix for the new $1000 note, signed by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, Chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, is 2AA.

Scans provided by Vincent Tan.

Categories
Stamps

Playgrounds

On 9 March 2010, SingPost released the stamp issue on Playgrounds. With a cartoon inspired illustration, six of the most popular playgrounds in Singapore are printed on the stamps.

“Ask anyone in Singapore and they will be able to recall fond memories of fun times at the playground as a child. Playgrounds are important places for children to play in. Playing helps children to develop their social skills, physical coordination, strength and flexibility. All these become their lifelong skill sets that are carried forward into their adulthood.”

West Coast Park, one of the largest parks in Singapore, is pictured on the 1st local stamp. The Toa Payoh Dragon Head Playground, which stands at the junction of Kim Keat Link and Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, is found on the 50c stamp. The newly built Sengkang Sculpture Park (65c) contains a collection of marine life-themed sculptures and is a popular hangout for children.

The 80c stamp shows the Vivo City alfresco playground containing unique water features and playground equipment. Pasir Ris Park is one of the all-time favourite family-friendly places and is depicted on the $1.10 stamp. Lastly, Hindhede Nature Park ($2), an adventure park located at the foot of Bukit Timah Hill, is one of the popular destinations for those who enjoy physical challenges.

Categories
Postcards

Postcard: Beijing 2008

This week, we feature a postcard showing a bird’s eye view of the Beijing Olympic Green. On the left side is the Beijing National Stadium, colloquially known as the Bird’s Nest. With a construction cost of US$423 million, the 80,000-seater stadium is the world’s largest steel structure. This postcard also shows the Beijing National Aquatics Centre illuminated at night. The exterior is surrounded by 4,000 bubbles and is commonly known as the Water Cube.

Sent: 19 February 2010
Received: 26 February 2010

Also, check out the earlier post on the HK$20 Beijing Olympics commemorative note!