20/12/2019: Macao–Hong Kong Financial Cooperation Agreement signed
The Macau and Hong Kong authorities signed a financial cooperation agreement to strengthen monetary and financial stability, impacting the value and role of the Macanese pataca.
31/12/2011: Replacement of 1 Lek coin
The 1 lek coin was demonetized and replaced by a banknote. The decision was made due to the high cost of producing the coin.
08/02/2000: Introduction of new banknotes and coins
A new series of banknotes and coins were introduced, featuring enhanced security features and updated designs.
02/03/1997: Collapse of pyramid schemes
The collapse of pyramid schemes in Albania caused a severe economic crisis, resulting in hyperinflation and a significant devaluation of the lek.
08/05/1995: Currency board system implemented
Macau adopted a currency board system, establishing a fixed exchange rate between the Macanese pataca and the Hong Kong dollar.
26/06/1992: Transition to a market economy
Albania transitioned to a market economy, leading to a significant depreciation of the lek. The exchange rate changed to 1 lek = 9.3 old lek.
20/10/1977: Internationalization of the pataca
Macau allowed the international use and exchange of the Macanese pataca, strengthening its role as a stable and convertible currency.
08/06/1967: Link with Portuguese escudo reestablished
The Macanese pataca was once again pegged to the Portuguese escudo, ending the gold standard era.
01/10/1965: Introduction of the new lek
A new series of banknotes and coins were introduced, marking the transition to the new lek. The exchange rate was set at 1 new lek = 10 old lek.
18/06/1948: Gold standard introduced
The Macanese pataca switched to the gold standard, with its value pegged to gold coins. The gold standard lasted until 1967.
22/12/1947: Albania becomes a communist state
Following the establishment of a communist regime in Albania, the currency underwent a major devaluation, with the exchange rate changing to 1 lek = 12.5 old lek.
01/09/1926: Introduction of the Albanian lek
The lek was introduced as the official currency of Albania, replacing the previous currency, the Turkish lira. The exchange rate was set at 1 lek = 35 Turkish lira.
17/03/1906: Silver standard established
Macau adopted the silver standard for the pataca, linking its value to silver coins in circulation. This standard remained in place until 1948.
27/10/1901: Introduction of Macanese pataca
The Macanese pataca was first introduced as the official currency of Macau, replacing the Portuguese real. It was initially pegged to the Portuguese escudo.