Singapore, April 4 (IANS): The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) on Saturday released a new set of commemorative coins to mark the island country's 50th anniversary.

The series comprise a copper-nickel coin of two Singapore dollars, a silver coin of five Singapore dollars and a gold coin of 50 Singapore dollars, Xinhua news agency reported.

Themed "Education, Building Our Nation Together", the set of coins reflects the fundamental role that education has played in Singapore's transformation.

The copper-nickel coin features basic education at the primary and secondary levels, which equips children with the foundational skills, character and values that prepare them for the future.

The silver coin showcases higher education that provides students with multiple pathways to achieving their aspirations.

The gold coin features educators who seek to bring out the best in every child.

Heng Swee Kiat, Singapore's minister of education and chairman of the SG50 (Singapore 50) steering committee, launched the first set of three SG50 coins on Saturday at an event which was attended by over 11,000 people, including educationists.

Singapore's multi-racial diversity is also depicted in all three designs. The back of the coins bear the Singapore Coat of Arms with the year 2015.

To be issued on May 28, the set of coins leads a series of commemorative notes that will be issued in the second half of this year.