01/04/2019: Romania plans to adopt the euro
The Romanian government announces its intention to join the Eurozone and set a target date for adopting the euro as the national 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.
01/06/2005: Currency redenomination
Romania underwent a currency redenomination, with 10,000 old lei being exchanged for 1 new leu, to simplify transactions and eliminate zeros.
01/07/2003: Romania joins EU Accession
As part of joining the European Union, Romania pledges to adopt the euro in the future, aiming for greater economic integration.
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.
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.
28/02/1991: End of communist era
As communism collapsed, Romania undergoes economic reforms and introduces a free-floating exchange rate system for the leu.
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.
30/12/1947: Communist regime introduces new leu
In an attempt to devalue the currency and control the economy, the Communist regime introduces a new leu at a ratio of 1:20,000.
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.
01/03/1901: Introduction of the gold standard
Romanian leu was tied to the gold standard, ensuring the stability of the currency and attracting foreign investments.
01/04/1867: Creation of the Romanian leu
The leu was established as the official currency of Romania, replacing the previous currencies in circulation.