Sir Ely's Mini-Museum, Santa Cruz (2026)

14/03/2026

🔵 FROM 10 CENTS TO 3.14: A PI DAY COIN STORY FROM THE SOLOMON ISLANDS 🔵

Today, March 14 (3/14), the world celebrates Pi Day, a special day honoring the mathematical constant π (pi)—the number that represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. Interestingly, this same date is also recognized globally as the International Day of Mathematics, a celebration that promotes the beauty and importance of mathematics in everyday life.

But did you know that there is actually a coin in the world with the denomination 3.14?

The Solomon Islands issued a remarkable commemorative coin with a face value of 3.14 dollars, directly inspired by the famous digits of π (3.14). This unique coin is part of a numismatic tribute to mathematics. Its design often features the π symbol at the center, surrounded by the never-ending digits of pi, reminding collectors and math enthusiasts alike of one of the most fascinating numbers ever discovered. The value 3.14 itself is symbolic, representing the first three digits of π, which continues infinitely without repeating.

Coins like this show how mathematics and culture intersect even in everyday objects like currency. Around the world, collectors appreciate such pieces not only for their monetary value but also for the stories, knowledge, and symbols they carry.

Here in Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum, Dr. Elymar A. Pascual proudly keeps a coin from the Solomon Islands—a 10-cent coin featuring Queen Elizabeth II. While it is not the 3.14-dollar Pi coin, it still represents the same nation that produced one of the most mathematically interesting coins ever minted.

✨ Curious to see it?

Visit Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum and discover this Solomon Islands coin up close—along with many other fascinating pieces from around the world. Sometimes, a small coin can open the door to a big story in mathematics, history, and culture.

23/11/2025

THE GERMAN BANKNOTE WITH A MATHEMATICAL FORMULA!

Most banknotes around the world feature portraits, landmarks, and symbols of national pride—but one German banknote stands out for including mathematics itself!

The 10 Deutsche Mark (DM10) banknote, issued before Germany adopted the Euro in 2002, carries something you rarely see on money: a probability density function of the normal distribution, complete with its iconic bell-shaped graph.

This formula is closely associated with the legendary German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss, whose work revolutionized statistics and led to the term “Gaussian distribution.”

Although Sir Ely does not have the DM10 banknote, he does have several German coins proudly displayed in Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum—a small but meaningful glimpse into Germany’s monetary history.

Visit Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum and take a look at the coins from Germany!

05/10/2025

WORLD TEACHERS' DAY CELEBRATION: THE IOWA QUARTER'S TRIBUTE TO EDUCATORS

In celebration of World Teachers’ Day, Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum shines the spotlight on the 2004 Iowa quarter, struck at both the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) mints.

This beautiful coin’s reverse design, adapted from Grant Wood’s painting Arbor Day, depicts a one-room schoolhouse where a teacher and students plant a tree. More than an image, it is a symbol of the heart of every educator: planting seeds of knowledge, nurturing growth, and shaping a better future.

For Dr. Elymar A. Pascual—an educator and the curator of Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum—this quarter is more than a collectible; it is a reminder that teachers, like trees, extend their influence far beyond what the eye can see. The true heart of an educator is found not only in lessons taught, but in lives transformed.

Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum proudly houses this Iowa quarter from both the Philadelphia and Denver mints, along with the complete collection of quarter dollars representing all 50 States of America, the District of Columbia, and the 5 U.S. territories - Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Northern Mariana Islands.

A fitting tribute on World Teachers’ Day: where coins and education meet, stories and values endure.

23/09/2025

🪙 GIANT LEGENDS: THE WORLD'S BIGGEST COINS 🌏

If the world’s smallest coins can amaze us with their delicacy, the world’s biggest coins impress us with their sheer size and weight. These massive pieces of metal are not just money—they are statements of power, artistry, and national pride. Some were made for circulation centuries ago, while others were struck as commemoratives to showcase a nation’s craftsmanship and natural resources.

Did you know that the Guinness World Record for the largest coin goes to Australia’s one-tonne gold coin, created in 2012? It is 80 centimeters wide, 12 centimeters thick, and made of 99.99% pure gold, with a legal tender value of 1 million Australian dollars (though its actual gold value is far higher). In ancient times, Rome also produced impressively large bronze coins, reflecting the strength of its empire. Meanwhile, the United States and the Philippines have both issued oversized commemorative coins that collectors and historians continue to admire today.

At Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum, you can explore a fascinating display of some of the world’s biggest coins. The collection includes striking examples from the United States of America, Australia, Rome, and the Philippines. Each piece tells a story—not only of monetary history but also of the artistry and ambition of the civilizations that created them.

🌟 Come and visit Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum to see these giant treasures up close. Be amazed at how coins can be both the tiniest of tokens and the mightiest of masterpieces, all under one roof!

01/09/2025

💰TINY TREASURES: EXPLORING THE WORLD'S SMALLEST COINS 🪙

When we think of coins, we usually picture something we can easily hold in our palm or slip into a pocket. But did you know that some of the world’s smallest coins are so tiny, they could balance on a fingertip or even slip through a seam in your wallet? These miniature marvels are more than just currency—they are pieces of history, craftsmanship, and culture preserved in metal.

In the world of numismatics, small doesn’t mean insignificant. Many tiny coins were minted centuries ago for practical purposes, such as making small-value transactions easier, while others were created as commemoratives or symbols of economic ingenuity. For example, ancient Rome produced minuscule bronze coins for everyday trade, while modern countries like Singapore and Australia have also struck coins that are remarkably small yet beautifully detailed.

Here at Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum, you can see an extraordinary collection of the world’s smallest coins. The display includes rare examples from the Philippines, USA, France, Netherlands, Singapore, Australia, Thailand, Korea, Rome, and Canada. Adding even more fascination to the exhibit is a showcase of replica of some of the smallest coins ever made in history—giving visitors the chance to appreciate how delicate and intricate these creations truly are.

These coins remind us that even the smallest objects can carry immense historical and cultural value. They challenge our perception of money and craftsmanship, proving that in numismatics, size does not define significance.

🌟 We warmly invite you to visit Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum to witness this unique display of the world’s smallest coins. Come and marvel at these tiny treasures, discover their stories, and let yourself be amazed by how much history can fit into something so small!

18/07/2025

🦅 NEW "ANIMAL" POLYMER BANKNOTE SERIES FROM THE PHILIPPINES 🇵🇭

A new chapter in Philippine currency has arrived—and it's turning heads and sparking conversations. Commonly referred to by the public as the “Animal Series,” the correct name of this release is the First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series. Launched by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in late 2024 and gradually rolled out in 2025, this new series features polymer-based banknotes that are more durable, secure, and hygienic compared to traditional paper bills.

The polymer bills currently in circulation include the 1,000-, 500-, 100-, and 50-peso denominations. Each of these showcases native Philippine wildlife, environmental icons, and cultural symbols. For instance, the 1,000-peso bill now features the majestic Philippine eagle, while the 500 showcases the Visayan spotted deer. The 100-peso bill highlights the Palawan peacock-pheasant, and the 50-peso note features the Visayan leopard cat. These are paired with other national elements like flowers, marine life, and natural landmarks—all beautifully designed to raise awareness and pride in the Philippines’ rich biodiversity.

However, this shift in design did not come without controversy. Many netizens voiced their concern, questioning why national heroes were being removed from the country’s banknotes and seemingly replaced by animals. In response, the BSP clarified that the intention was never to erase history or downplay the significance of Filipino heroes. Rather, the goal was to use this special polymer series to draw attention to environmental conservation, indigenous species, and national symbols. The hero-themed paper bills from the New Generation Currency (NGC) series will remain in circulation alongside the new polymer notes.

It’s worth noting that as of now, there are no polymer versions of the 200- and 20-peso bills. The 200-peso note is less commonly used, and the 20-peso denomination already exists as both a paper bill and a coin under the previous series.

At Sir Ely’s Mini Museum, you can have a glance of this exciting new collection firsthand. Visit and explore!

03/06/2025

💰A MILLIONIARE IN BALI – EVEN FOR A WHILE! 🇮🇩

When Sir Ely attended the World Conference on Women’s Studies (WCWS) held from May 29 to 31, 2025 in the beautiful island of Bali, Indonesia, he returned not only with fresh insights and global connections but also with a unique collection of Indonesian currency. As a traveler with a keen eye for cultural details, Sir Ely brought home various denominations of the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), including banknotes of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 Rupiah. He also managed to collect coins in 100 and 500 Rupiah denominations.

What fascinated him even more was a fun and surprising trivia: in Indonesia, anyone can feel like an instant millionaire. Due to the low exchange rate of the Rupiah compared to many other currencies—especially the Philippine Peso—a relatively small amount of money can quickly turn into millions. For example, around ₱3,500 Philippine Pesos is roughly equivalent to 1,000,000 Indonesian Rupiah. It’s quite an exciting experience to see such large numbers in your wallet, even if it doesn’t necessarily mean extreme wealth!

The currency itself is vibrant and full of character, often featuring Indonesian national heroes, landmarks, and cultural elements. It’s not just money—it’s a glimpse into the country’s identity and pride. For Sir Ely, this collection wasn’t just a souvenir, but a meaningful reminder of his journey, the conference, and the fascinating economic quirks of travel.

So yes, during his time in Bali, Sir Ely was truly a millionaire—even if just for a few days. And what a story that makes!

Visit Sir Ely's Mini-Museum and explore!

03/05/2025

BEFORE COINS AND BILLS: WHEN SHELLS WERE MONEY

Did you know there was a time when people didn’t use coins or bills—but shells?

Long before paper money and minted coins existed, cowrie shells—glossy, durable sea snail shells from species like Monetaria moneta—were once one of the most widely used forms of currency. They were traded across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, long before modern money came into the picture.

In Africa, cowrie shells served as legal tender in various regions until the mid-19th century, even playing a part in complex trade systems. In ancient China, cowries were used over 3,000 years ago, and their shape even inspired the Chinese character for money (貝).

The Maldives was one of the most important sources of money cowries, and though they are no longer used as currency today, every Maldivian banknote features a pair of cowrie shells—a tribute to their historical value.

Shell money didn’t stop there. In the South Pacific, shells from sea snails like Oliva carneola were crafted into money. And in Papua New Guinea, shell currency made from Nassa sea snails (called Tabu) is still exchanged for official money, like the Kina, in certain communities.

Though no official currency today features a land snail, sea snails—and their shells—have had a profound role in shaping early economies and trade.

But at Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum, land snails are celebrated in a more personal way.

Sir Ely, a snail enthusiast, keeps African land snails in his garden. When these gentle creatures pass, he carefully collects their shells and mounts them in a beautiful wooden frame, now proudly displayed at his coffee nook, Spidey Cafe.

He’s not alone in this love for snails—his niece, Trixcy, shares his fascination. One of their favorite bonding moments is exploring Sir Ely's Spider’s Garden, searching for snails and observing them in their natural habitat. These quiet moments of wonder and discovery are just as treasured as the shells themselves.

From ancient currency to modern-day curiosity, shells continue to captivate.

Visit Sir Ely’s Mini-Museum and explore!

16/01/2025

A CULTURAL EXPEDITION: UNCOVERING MALAYSIA'S RICH HERITAGE

Malaysia’s coins and bills reflect the country’s vibrant history, culture, and economic progress, and they are a treasured part of Sir Ely’s mini-museum collection, which showcases currencies from across the globe. The Malaysian ringgit (MYR), introduced in 1967, replaced the straits dollar and marked a new chapter in the country’s financial history. The design of the ringgit, from its early notes to the current polymer series, reflects Malaysia's national symbols, such as the national flower, the hibiscus, and the renowned Petronas Towers. The coins, which include denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen, also highlight Malaysia's diverse culture, often featuring motifs inspired by traditional Malay textiles, or songket, as well as important national figures.

One of the most unique features of Malaysia’s coins is the bimetallic 50 sen coin, which is notable not only for its design but also for the micro lettering on its edge, a security measure that distinguishes it from many other currencies in the region. The introduction of polymer notes has contributed to the durability of Malaysia's currency, making it highly resistant to wear and tear. The notes often feature images of prominent leaders, including Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, symbolizing the country’s historical milestones.

Beyond his extensive collection, Sir Ely has a personal connection to Malaysia that transcends its currency. From July 5-8, 2023, Sir Ely visited Kuala Lumpur to attend the 7th International Conference on the Future of Education (FOE), organized by The International Institute of Knowledge Management (TIIKM). During the conference, he engaged with fellow delegates from Argentina, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, and South Africa, exchanging insights on the future of global education. The experience allowed Sir Ely to connect with educators from around the world and gain invaluable perspectives on the evolving landscape of education.

In addition to the academic event, Sir Ely had the opportunity to explore Kuala Lumpur’s cultural landmarks, including the iconic Petronas Towers. This towering structure, once the tallest in the world, offered a stunning view of the city’s modern skyline. Sir Ely’s travels also led him to other cultural sites, enriching his understanding of Malaysia's heritage and progress.

Sir Ely’s collection of Malaysian coins and bills serves as a testament to the country’s rich history and the lasting impressions left by his visit. For a closer look at his unforgettable journey, you can watch Sir Ely’s Malaysia tour video here: https://youtu.be/ClvOBYXAUeU?si=y9mB1T92MG7Ks27L . Through his collection, Sir Ely continues to inspire others to explore the world, connecting history, culture, and personal experiences through the currency of different nations.

Visit Sir Ely's Mini-Museum and explore!

15/01/2025

VIETNAMESE CURRENCY: A JOURNEY OF HISTORY AND HONOR

Vietnam’s coins and bills offer a captivating narrative of the country’s history and cultural evolution, and they form an important part of Sir Ely’s mini-museum collection, which features currencies from around the world. The Vietnamese đồng, the country’s official currency, has undergone significant changes over the years. Historically, Vietnam used cash coins known as đồng tiền, which were inspired by ancient Chinese currency with round shapes and square holes in the center. The modern currency system, established after the reunification of Vietnam in 1975, shifted to banknotes and coins that reflect the nation’s growth and heritage. Today, the polymer bills are durable and feature historical figures such as President Ho Chi Minh, as well as national landmarks and symbols representing the country’s natural beauty and historical milestones.

Vietnamese coins, though no longer in general circulation, hold historical value. The 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 đồng coins were once integral to everyday transactions. The absence of coins in circulation today highlights Vietnam’s evolving economy and the increasing reliance on banknotes and digital transactions. The bills, which come in various denominations, depict important figures and national monuments, further cementing their role as cultural artifacts.

Sir Ely’s connection with Vietnam is not just limited to his collection. In September 2022, he visited Ho Chi Minh City to attend the American Management University (AMU) Graduation, where he, alongside Dr. Nilda V. San Miguel, received an Honorary Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Research, Measurement, and Evaluation. This momentous event brought Sir Ely together with fellow graduates, faculty members, and visitors, including the University President, Dr. Roy Virgen, and many Vietnamese locals. During the visit, Sir Ely also explored the vibrant city, enjoying a city tour on motorbikes with student tour guides Alice and Bevis, who introduced him to Ho Chi Minh City’s rich cultural landscape.

The coins and bills from Vietnam in Sir Ely’s collection serve as a reminder of the country’s remarkable transformation, both economically and socially. They also symbolize his personal experiences and the meaningful connections made during his visit. Sir Ely’s Vietnam tour video, showcasing the beauty and vibrancy of the city, can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/0Ye2uAhIoPM?si=BdCqOj-dplgkBral . Through his collection, Sir Ely continues to share his appreciation for the history and culture of Vietnam and other nations, inspiring others to learn more about the world through its currencies.

Visit Sir Ely's Mini-Museum and explore!

15/01/2025

UNVEILING JAPAN'S TIMELESS COINS

Japan’s coins tell a fascinating story of the country’s cultural heritage and economic progress, making them a valued part of Sir Ely’s mini-museum collection, which showcases currencies from around the world. The modern Japanese yen, introduced in 1871, replaced the complex Edo-period monetary system. Coins such as the 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen pieces reflect both simplicity and tradition, often featuring elements like cherry blossoms, rice plants, and the iconic chrysanthemum symbol of the Imperial family. Notably, the 5 and 50 yen coins have holes in the center, a design rooted in both practicality and historical significance.

A unique aspect of Japanese coins is their enduring use despite the global shift toward digital transactions. Coins remain integral in daily life, especially for use in vending machines, temples, and transportation systems. The 500 yen coin, one of the highest-valued coins in circulation globally, stands out with its advanced security features and distinct bimetallic design, emphasizing Japan’s commitment to innovation.

Sir Ely's connection with Japan goes beyond his coin collection. He visited Tokyo from October 13-15, 2018, attending the 9th Asian Conference on Education (ACE) organized by the International Academic Forum (IAFOR) at the Toshi Center Hotel. During the event, he presented his first action research, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey. The conference brought together participants from diverse nationalities, including American, Kazakhstani, Thai, Swedish, Australian, Chinese, Indonesian, Israeli, Japanese, and Filipino delegates, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and cultural insights.

Beyond the academic experience, Sir Ely explored the beauty of Tokyo, capturing unforgettable moments of the city’s culture and architecture. His Tokyo tour video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/K2-EDR6KORI?si=8C8ZNKBzPmoJhBPV . Sir Ely’s collection of Japanese coins, along with his meaningful experiences in Tokyo, continues to inspire curiosity about global cultures and the historical significance of currencies worldwide.

Visit Sir Ely's Mini-Museum and explore!

13/01/2025

DISCOVERING THAILAND'S HERITAGE THROUGH CURRENCY AND CAMARADERIE

Thailand’s currency, the Thai Baht (THB), is not only a medium of exchange but also a representation of the country’s rich history and culture. The Baht is subdivided into 100 satang and features both coins and banknotes of varying denominations.

Thai coins typically come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 Baht, as well as smaller satang coins (25 and 50 satang). Each coin showcases significant national symbols, including depictions of Thai temples, historical landmarks, and the portraits of Thai monarchs. The intricate designs reflect the country's pride in its heritage and traditions.

Thai banknotes are equally fascinating. The denominations currently in circulation include 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Baht. These notes often feature images of revered Thai kings, alongside illustrations that commemorate historical achievements, cultural milestones, and notable landmarks. For instance, past notes have depicted the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, underlining the significance of Bangkok as a cultural and historical hub.

Historical Insights and Trivia
• Historical Monarchs: Thai banknotes often celebrate King Rama IX, Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was deeply loved by the Thai people.
• Unique Features: Modern Thai currency includes security measures like watermarks, metallic strips, and microprinting, ensuring authenticity.
• Cultural Reflection: The imagery on coins and bills embodies Thailand's dedication to Buddhism, with many designs highlighting temples and religious artifacts.

Sir Ely, a dedicated collector and enthusiast, proudly displays these coins and banknotes in his mini-museum of world currencies. During his visit to Bangkok in June 2019, Sir Ely had the opportunity to immerse himself in Thai culture and make meaningful connections at the Universal Academic Cluster Bangkok June Conference.

The event, held on June 13-14, 2019, brought together researchers and academics from around the world. Organized by Dr. Banyat Sroysang, a retired professor based in Phayathai, Bangkok, the conference fosters collaboration among scholars twice a year. Sir Ely presented two of his studies, joining other Filipino researchers, including his colleague, Dr. Nilda V. San Miguel, who also shared her work.

During the conference, Sir Ely met several Thai participants. Arya Rishi, a master’s student from Chulalongkorn University, presented on regulatory changes in Asian countries. Pimchanok Nakchuai and Pawaphat Sartsri, master’s students in engineering, contributed through a poster presentation. The event proved to be a vibrant exchange of ideas, strengthening international bonds.

To explore Bangkok, Sir Ely relied on the expertise of Duangjai Sorlamor, a local tour guide who introduced him to the city’s cultural gems.

His Bangkok, Thailand Tour can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/bfGbnseslzk?si=tRszCcC4x6tsJH6v

Through his experiences in Thailand, Sir Ely not only deepened his appreciation for Thai currency but also established enduring connections with Thai locals and international scholars. His journey serves as a testament to the enriching power of cultural and academic exchange.

Visit Sir Ely's Mini-Museum and explore!

Sir Ely's Mini-Museum

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