Moldovan leu
Worldwide use:
- Moldova
Description:
The Moldovan Leu is the official currency of Moldova, except for in the region of Transnistria where the Transnistrian Ruble is used. One Moldovan Leu is worth 100 Bani. Coins are issued in 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 Bani and banknotes are available in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Lei.
The word 'Leu' means 'lion.' Moldovan Leu banknotes show an image of Ştefan cel Mare who was a prince from 1457 to 1504. They also feature prose from a Romanian song which is an important part of Romanian history and culture. These words translate to 'Near a low foothill, at Heaven’s door-sill.'
Origin:
When Moldova was part of the Soviet Union, the Soviet Ruble was the official currency. However, when the Soviet Union fell in 1992, a temporary currency called the Moldovan Cupon was used. 1 Moldovan Leu was worth 1000 Moldovan Cupons. This circulated for about a year before the Moldovan Leu was introduced in 1993. The eastern regions of Moldova also used the Romanian Leu from 1918 to 1940 and from 1941 to 1944.
Component units:
- ban (100)
Date introduced:
- 29 November 1993
Central bank:
- National Bank of Moldova
Printer:
Mint:
