16/03/2021: New 5 Rial Polymer Banknote Introduced
A new polymer banknote with a denomination of 5 rials was introduced, enhancing durability and security features of the currency.
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.
15/01/2003: New Omani Rial Banknotes Issued
New series of Omani rial banknotes were introduced, featuring enhanced security features and updated designs.
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.
12/06/1994: Smaller Denomination Coins Issued
Small denomination coins, including 5, 10, 25, and 50 baisa coins, were issued in order to facilitate everyday transactions.
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.
17/03/1986: 200 Baisa Coin Introduced
A new 200 baisa coin was introduced, becoming the highest denomination coin in circulation at that time.
11/11/1975: 1/8 Rial Copper-Nickel Coin Introduced
A new 1/8 rial coin made of copper-nickel was introduced, representing a fractional value of the rial currency.
02/03/1973: Rial Oman Pegged to US Dollar
The Omani rial was officially pegged to the United States dollar, with an exchange rate of 1 OMR = 2.895 USD.
27/07/1970: Rial Oman is Introduced
The Omani rial was introduced, replacing the Gulf rupee at a rate of 1 rial = 2.6008 rupees.
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.