31/12/2020: Digital Currency Pilot
Azerbaijan launched a pilot program to test the use of a digital currency, the digital manat, in an effort to modernize its financial system.
20/12/2017: Second Devaluation
The manat faced another devaluation, this time by around 30%, due to economic challenges and a sharp drop in oil prices.
20/12/2015: Devaluation
The manat was devalued by more than 30% against the US dollar in response to falling oil prices.
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.
20/02/2005: Pegged to US Dollar
The Azerbaijani manat was pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1.6 manat per dollar.
14/06/2001: Currency Reform
A currency reform was implemented, resulting in a new manat with a higher exchange rate.
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.
31/12/1993: Hyperinflation
Azerbaijan experienced a period of hyperinflation, leading to the devaluation of the manat.
14/08/1992: Introduction of Manat
The Azerbaijani manat currency was introduced as the official currency of Azerbaijan, replacing the Soviet ruble.
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.
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.