16/03/2021: New 5 Rial Polymer Banknote Introduced
A new polymer banknote with a denomination of 5 rials was introduced, enhancing durability and security features of the currency.
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.
15/01/2003: New Omani Rial Banknotes Issued
New series of Omani rial banknotes were introduced, featuring enhanced security features and updated designs.
22/02/1996: Civil war ends
The Sierra Leonean Civil War comes to an end, providing an opportunity for economic stabilization and currency reform.
12/06/1994: Smaller Denomination Coins Issued
Small denomination coins, including 5, 10, 25, and 50 baisa coins, were issued in order to facilitate everyday transactions.
17/03/1986: 200 Baisa Coin Introduced
A new 200 baisa coin was introduced, becoming the highest denomination coin in circulation at that time.
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.
11/11/1975: 1/8 Rial Copper-Nickel Coin Introduced
A new 1/8 rial coin made of copper-nickel was introduced, representing a fractional value of the rial currency.
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.
02/03/1973: Rial Oman Pegged to US Dollar
The Omani rial was officially pegged to the United States dollar, with an exchange rate of 1 OMR = 2.895 USD.
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.
27/07/1970: Rial Oman is Introduced
The Omani rial was introduced, replacing the Gulf rupee at a rate of 1 rial = 2.6008 rupees.
27/04/1961: Independence of Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone gains independence from the United Kingdom, introducing the Sierra Leonean leone as its official currency.