01/01/2022: Currency Floatation
Angola transitioned from a fixed exchange rate to a floating exchange rate system, allowing the Kwanza's value to be determined by the market forces of supply and demand.
30/10/2020: Kwanza Devaluation
In response to economic challenges, Angola devalued the Kwanza by approximately 24%, increasing the exchange rate from 165 to 195 Kwanzas per US dollar.
15/04/2013: Currency Redesign
Angola launched a new series of banknotes, featuring improved security features and new designs to reflect national landmarks and culture.
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.
08/11/1999: Return to Kwanza
Angola reintroduced the Kwanza as the official currency, replacing the Kwanza Reajustado, at a rate of 1,000 Kwanza Reajustado to 1 Kwanza.
18/02/1999: Introduction of Kwanza Reajustado
Kwanza Reajustado was introduced as a temporary currency, with 1 Kwanza Reajustado equal to 1,000 regular Kwanzas.
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.
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.
31/03/1990: Kwanza Revaluation
In an attempt to combat hyperinflation, the government redenominated the currency, with 1 new Kwanza equal to 1,000 old Kwanzas.
08/01/1977: Introduction of the Kwanza
Angola introduced the first Kwanza currency, replacing the Portuguese Escudo, with 1 Kwanza equal to 1 Escudo.
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.
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.