Singapore, 18 August 2006...The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) today launched a set of coins to commemorate Singapore's hosting of the 2006 Annual Meetings of the Boards of Governors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WB).
2 Singapore 2006 represents the most comprehensive gathering of global financial representatives and is the largest financial sector event to be held in Singapore. The event is expected to draw about 16,000 visitors including political leaders, key decision makers from the financial world and the international media. The hosting of this prestigious event will position Singapore as a global city with a world of opportunities and showcase its many offerings and exciting activities. The 2006 meetings will further profile Singapore as an international financial centre.
3 Singapore 2006 is an important occasion not just for Singapore, but also for Asia, to demonstrate the significant developments and structural reforms that have taken place in the region since the Asian Financial Crisis. In conjunction with the IMF/WB Annual Meetings, there will be a series of high-profile seminars with a strong focus on Asia and ASEAN covering a wide range of development, financial and economic issues.
4 Delegates and visitors can also look forward to the inaugural Singapore Biennale, a global showcase of contemporary culture and visual arts infused with the rich and diverse cultural elements of Singapore and Asia.
About the Coin Design
5 The coin design features Singapore's skyline, which represents the unique accomplishments of Singapore. An icon of our thriving financial and business hub, the skyline also reflects the vibrancy of the local arts and cultural scenes with the Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay in the foreground.
6 The map of the world, with the lion symbol pointing to the location of Singapore, conveys the message that Singapore is well connected to the rest of the world, a place where people and activities converge, offering endless possibilities and diverse opportunities.
7 The stylised bud at the left of the coin is the logo for Singapore 2006, symbolising the life force of Singapore and the country's potential for growth in the global economy.
8 The obverse of the coin bears the Singapore Arms with the year-date 2006.
Limited Worldwide Mintage
9 The coins will be issued on 5 September 2006. The details of the coins are as follows:
a) S$5 Silver Proof Coin
20 grams of 999 Fine Silver. Coin diameter of 38.70 mm. Mintage of 10,000 pieces.b) S$5 Cupro-Nickel Proof-like Coin
This 20 grams Cupro-Nickel Proof-like Coin has a diameter of 38.70 mm. Mintage is based on demand.The Singapore 2006 logo and lion symbol are featured in colour application on both the coins.
10 The above two coins are also available in a 2-in-1 Coin Set, with a mintage of only 2,006 sets, as 2006 is the year in which the event is held in Singapore.
Sale of Coins
11 The coins will be sold by The Singapore Mint.
12 For enquiries and coin orders, the public can contact The Singapore Mint at telephone nos 6566 2626 / 6895 0386 or via internet at www.singaporemint.com .