Over time, some coins may lose their shine, become discoloured, or even appear blackened due to oxidation, frequent handling, or environmental exposure. While this is common, it can sometimes lead to confusion during transactions, especially when businesses refuse to accept them.
In Malaysia, the law still recognises old or discoloured coins as legal tender as long as they are not physically damaged or tampered with. So yes, even if a coin looks worn out or darkened with age, it should still be usable.
Photo via Oriental Daily
This was exactly the case for a customer at a shop in Taiping, Perak, who found themselves in an awkward situation when the store owner refused to accept a 20-sen coin simply because it was “too black”.
According to Oriental Daily, the customer had purchased two cans of bean paste priced at RM5.60 each. When paying the total of RM11.20, the customer handed over RM11 in notes and a 20-sen coin. But instead of completing the transaction, the store owner said, “I don’t accept black coins.”
Confused, the customer asked why, only to be met with the response, “If it were you, would you accept it?”
The customer pointed out that the coin had been given to him as change at another shop and that he did not see any issue with using it again.
In search of clarification, he later spoke with a community advisor who explained that many coins, especially older ones like the 20-sen piece from 1981, can turn black over time due to natural wear and oxidation. However, unless Bank Negara Malaysia officially announces that a particular coin series is no longer in circulation, businesses should not reject it based on appearance alone.
Photo via Oriental Daily
The advisor stressed that discolouration is not caused intentionally and that rejecting such coins without valid reason can be seen as unfair. Merchants are encouraged to accept all valid Malaysian currency regardless of how aged or dull it may look.
So if you ever come across an old, blackened coin in your wallet, rest assured it still holds its value. And if you are a business owner, remember that legal tender comes in all shades.
