01/10/2022: Transition to digital currency
Gibraltar announced the introduction of a digital currency pegged 1:1 to the Gibraltar pound, making it one of the first jurisdictions to do so.
15/08/2019: Commencement of polymer £50 issuance
Polymer £50 banknotes were introduced, replacing the older paper £50 notes.
26/06/2018: New £100 banknote issued
A new £100 banknote featuring the image of Sir Joshua Hassan, first Chief Minister of Gibraltar, was issued.
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.
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.
06/11/1988: Introduction of polymer banknotes
Polymer banknotes were introduced in Gibraltar, enhancing durability and counterfeit resilience.
15/02/1971: Currency tied to British pound
The Gibraltar pound became pegged to the British pound at a rate of 1:1, ensuring stability and ease of trade.
23/06/1969: Currency switch to decimalization
Gibraltar switched from the pound shilling pence system to a decimalized currency, with 100 pence equal to 1 pound.
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.
07/03/1927: Introduction of Gibraltar pound
The Gibraltar pound was first introduced as the official currency of Gibraltar, replacing the Spanish peseta.
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.