ZMK · ZMK
Zambian Kwacha (ZMK)
The Zambian Kwacha (ZMK) is the former currency of Zambia, replaced by the rebased Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) in 2013. This page provides factual information about its history and characteristics.
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ZMK · Zambian Kwacha
Zambian Kwacha (ZMK): Overview and History
The Zambian Kwacha (ZMK) was the official currency of Zambia from 1968 until 2013, when it was replaced by the new Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) at a rate of 1 ZMW = 1000 ZMK. The currency symbol was 'K' and its ISO code was ZMK. The Bank of Zambia issued banknotes and coins denominated in ZMK.
Throughout its history, the ZMK experienced significant inflation, leading to the need for rebasing. The rebasing simplified transactions and restored confidence in the national currency. Today, ZMK is no longer legal tender, but historical data and exchange rates are still referenced for archival and analytical purposes.
For those researching Zambian economic history, understanding the ZMK is essential. This page offers a factual overview without providing current exchange rates or investment guidance.
- Code
- ZMK
- Symbol
- ZMK
- Current rate
- USD / ZMK
Currency information
Last updated · 8/7/2026
Introduced in 1968, replacing the Zambian pound.
- Official name
- Zambian Kwacha
- Legal tender status
- Withdrawn
- Decimal places
- 2
- Minor unit
- Ngwee · 1 ZMK = 100 Ngwee
- Countries
- Zambia
- Issuing authority
- Bank of Zambia
- Central bank
- Bank of Zambia · Official website
- Exchange-rate regime
- Floating
Common banknotes
K2 · K5 · K10 · K20 · K50 · K100
Common coins
5n · 10n · 25n · 50n · K1 · K5
Also known as
Kwacha · Zambian Kwacha · ZMK · ZK
Practical notes
- The Zambian kwacha was redenominated in 2013, with 1000 old kwacha = 1 new kwacha.
- The old ZMK currency was replaced by the new ZMW currency.
Priority currency pairs
The most useful conversions for this currency.
Zambian Kwacha questions
What is the ZMK exchange rate?
The displayed rate is the latest available reference rate for USD/ZMK. It can change throughout the day.
How can I convert ZMK online?
Use the converter above to calculate indicative amounts between ZMK and the other supported currencies.