Throughout the 66 years of being an independent country, Malaysia has a total of three coin series with ; the 1st, 2nd and 3rd. The latest one that Malaysian folks are currently using is the 3rd series coin.
Let’s take a look at the features of the Malaysia 3rd series coin.
The Facts Behind Malaysia 3rd Series Of Coin
Image via HubPages
The main idea behind the third series coins is to produce a lightweight version of coins. If you notice, the coins that we are currently using are smaller and lighter.
The new coins also embodies designs that can be useful for those who are visually impaired. It also features minting technology to avoid counterfeit. Not to mention, the coins are now more durable due to it being made out of metal alloys.
Read too about the past series of Malaysia’s bank notes and coin features.
Malaysia 3rd Series Coin Features
1. 50 Sen
Image via Coin Brothers
| Material | Nickel brass clad copper |
| Weight | 5.66g |
| Diameter | 22.65mm |
Motif Features
The new design of 50 sen coin showcases the ‘Sulur Kacang‘ or pea tendrils pattern, which is popular among conventional woodcarving artisans. This motif is inspired by the elegant twirls and spirals of lengthy bean vines. It adorns exquisite jewelry items and the adornment of residences.
Security Features
Image via Bank Negara Malaysia
Additionally, the intricate lines within the motif’s backdrop serve as integral security elements. As can be seen in the pictures, the new coin series have clad material, latent image and ‘Spanish Flower’ shape.
Public-Friendly Features
Additionally, to accommodate with the visually impaired needs, the 50 sen coin has a special edge with 9 indents. This make it easier for them to distinguish the coin from the others. The coin also comes in yellow gold color to make it easier to notice.
2. 20 Sen
Image via World Coins
| Material | Nickel brass |
| Weight | 5.66g |
| Diameter | 20.60mm |
Motif Features
The ‘Bunga Melur‘ or Jasmine flower holds cultural importance within Malaysia’s three main ethnic groups. Its fragrant aroma renders it a crucial element in customary rituals.
Moreover, it stands as a favored design in classical creative pursuits like embroidery and silver crafting. The new 20 sen coin showcases the Jasmine flower alongside a backdrop featuring the ‘Destar Siga‘ cloth pattern.
Public-Friendly Features
You might notice that the 20 sen coin has different edge unlike the 50 sen coin ones. The coarse edge of the 20 sen coin is to make it easier for visually-impaired individuals to differentiate it from other coins. The coins also came in yellow color so that people can find it easier.
3. 10 Sen
Image via VCoins
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Weight | 2.98g |
| Diameter | 18.80mm |
Motif Features
The indigenous tribes, known as ‘Orang Asli,‘ in Malaysia possess a remarkable skill in crafting decorative pieces from native leaves and plants. These items hold significance in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
Each tribe has its distinct weaving style, often influenced by their cultural beliefs. The 10 sen coin portrays this rich heritage by showcasing the intricate weave design of the Mah Meri tribe.
Public-Friendly Features
10 sen coins come in silver color which are different than the 50 sen and 20 sen coins. To visually-disable person, they can differentiate 10 sen with other coins with the presence of milled edge surrounding the coin.
4. 5 Sen
Image via Bank Note World
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Weight | 1.72g |
| Diameter | 17.78mm |
Motif Features
The ‘Destar Siga’ textile is a native weaving technique that finds its roots within the Kadazan Dusun tribe of Sabah. Primarily employed as a ceremonial headpiece, this fabric is meticulously crafted using predominantly black threads. It will then be embellished with a medley of colorful threads.
This will form diverse geometric designs and motifs inspired by plants and animals. The latest 5 sen coin proudly showcases the ‘destar siga’ design, taking center stage, while the ‘sulur kacang’ motif graces the background.
Public-Friendly Features
The 5 sen coins come with plain edge. The purpose of the plain edge is similar like other coins; to differentiate and distinguish it from the other coins. This matter is super helpful for the visually impaired individuals to find the coins.
Now that you have come to end of the list, we can definitely see how careful these coins are curated. Apart from its inspiration coming from the diversity of culture and heritage of our country, the coins’ features ensure the maximum function including among the disabled-people.
