23/06/2016: Brexit Referendum
The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, causing significant uncertainty and volatility in the pound sterling's value.
27/04/2010: Adoption of new currency symbol
Sierra Leone adopts a new currency symbol for the leone (Le), representing its cultural heritage and national identity.
29/07/2003: Introduction of new leone notes
Sierra Leone introduces a new series of leone banknotes with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting.
31/12/1999: Establishment of the Euro
The euro was introduced as an electronic currency, paving the way for the eventual replacement of some national currencies, including the pound.
22/02/1996: Civil war ends
The Sierra Leonean Civil War comes to an end, providing an opportunity for economic stabilization and currency reform.
16/09/1992: Black Wednesday
The pound sterling experienced a severe drop in value and the UK was forced to withdraw from the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM).
29/04/1980: Coup d'etat
A military coup takes place in Sierra Leone, leading to economic instability and a decline in the value of the leone.
15/07/1974: Redenomination of the leone
Sierra Leone redenominates its currency, replacing the old leone with a new leone at a ratio of 1:4.
04/11/1971: Introduction of decimal currency
Sierra Leone adopts a decimal currency system, replacing the pound with the leone as its new official currency.
14/02/1971: Decimalization of the Pound
The pound sterling was decimalized, with the old system of pounds, shillings and pence replaced by a decimal currency.
27/04/1961: Independence of Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone gains independence from the United Kingdom, introducing the Sierra Leonean leone as its official currency.
06/12/1921: Currency Separation with Ireland
Following the Anglo-Irish Treaty, Ireland left the United Kingdom and established its own currency, leading to separate pound sterling notes.
21/12/1816: Gold Standard Introduced
The pound sterling was officially placed on the gold standard, meaning it was backed by a fixed amount of gold.
27/07/1694: Bank of England Established
The Bank of England was founded and granted a royal charter, becoming the central bank of England.