Singapore Commemorative $25 Banknote (MAS 25th Anniversary)

This Singapore Commemorative $25 banknote is issued in 1996 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). 

Is there any significance to this issue? 

Well of course, every issue is significant. Apart from the 300,000 notes issued for circulation and in commemorative packages:

1. It is the only SECOND commemorative banknote to be issued by the Board of Commissioners of Currency, Singapore (BCCS). 
2. It is the only SECOND $25 after the Orchid $25. 
3. It is the only note that has NO prefix in the serial number.
4. It is the only note that packs the MOST security features, in all the notes issued so far.

It is a beautiful banknote, minus the MAS building. The banknote is covered with intricate graphics and micro-lettering. The octagon multi-coloured hologram is a precursor to the silver hologram found in the Portrait series that started circulation in 1999. 

Front design:  The multi-redundant hologram and serial number that has no prefix, i.e. numbers only.

 Back design: Featuring the skyline of the financial district.

The octagon multi-redundant hologram with the symbol of the Singapore Lion and the numerals 25.

 The front cover of the "Cheque Book" commemorative pack. It was issued at S$36/- in 1996.

 There are a total of 12 security features packed onto the front design of the note.

On the back design, there are 4 security features. But . . . . sometimes, less is more. You will be mesmerized by what you see under UV.

 The front-design, under ultra-violet light: the bottom serial number and the seal of the Chairman, printed in fluorescent ink,  glow in orange colour.

The back-design under UV, glows like fire-works, never seen in any of the series ever produced. There are two "25" glowing next to the printed "25", and "1Jan96" at the right-hand corner, are invisible features that are visible only under UV.

So are you impressed? 

Yes, I am, from a technical point of view, it is an important production that has many significant features that are unique and not available in other series. 

No, I'm not, from a quantity point of view, the numbers are too large, simply because Singapore is too small! I'm not sure how many of the 300,000 notes were issued, but based on the fact that the commemorative packs are still being auctioned quarterly, it is definitely not scarce.

But in view of Singapore's population growing to 6.9 million by 2030, my advice: BUY NOW! EVERYTHING!

Of course, I'm just kidding. Bad pun intended. :-)

May I wish all readers who are celebrating the Lunar New Year, a Snaking Good Year ahead! 

恭喜！恭喜！富贵，平安。