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.
10/09/2008: Introduction of Birr Denominations
Ethiopia introduced new banknotes of different denominations in an effort to combat counterfeiting and improve security features.
29/07/2003: Introduction of new leone notes
Sierra Leone introduces a new series of leone banknotes with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting.
22/02/1996: Civil war ends
The Sierra Leonean Civil War comes to an end, providing an opportunity for economic stabilization and currency reform.
27/05/1991: Introduction of Birr Coins
Ethiopia introduced coins for the birr denominations, replacing the previous notes.
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.
17/09/1976: Introduction of New Birr
A new birr was introduced, replacing the previous Ethiopian birr and being equal to 100 old birr.
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.
27/04/1961: Independence of Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone gains independence from the United Kingdom, introducing the Sierra Leonean leone as its official currency.
08/07/1945: Decree to Change Birr Decimalization
Ethiopia changed the birr decimalization from talari and ghersh to dollars and cents.
31/12/1931: Introduction of Ethiopian birr
The Ethiopian birr was introduced as the official currency, replacing the Maria Theresa Thaler.
05/07/1931: Ethiopian Monetary Authority Established
The Ethiopian Monetary Authority was established to regulate the country's monetary system and issue currency.
14/02/1894: Introduction of Maria Theresa Thaler
Ethiopia adopted the Maria Theresa Thaler as the official currency, which remained in circulation until 1935.