Afghani — currency of Afghanistan

History and development

The afghani was introduced in the early 20th century as a national currency, replacing older colonial-era units. Decades of economic disruption, civil conflict and inflation meant the currency went through several changes. In the early 2000s a monetary reform and a new series of banknotes and coins were issued by the central bank to restore confidence and simplify circulation.

Denominations and design

Modern issues include a range of banknotes covering commonly used values and a limited set of coins. In 2005 new coins in values such as 1, 2 and 5 afghani were produced, reflecting efforts to modernize coinage. Banknotes typically feature security elements and imagery drawn from Afghan cultural, historical and architectural motifs.

Usage and economic role

The afghani functions as legal tender for domestic trade, wages and savings. In practice, foreign currencies — notably the U.S. dollar and, in some border regions, the Pakistani rupee — may circulate alongside it for larger transactions or savings, especially during periods of high inflation or instability. The central bank, Da Afghanistan Bank, is responsible for issuing currency and maintaining monetary policy.

Notable facts

• Subdivision: 100 pul = 1 afghani in theory, though pul coins are rarely used.
• Currency code: AFN; symbol: ؋ (Unicode sign) or "Af".
• Coins were reintroduced in the 2000s with a few low-value afghani denominations.
• Banknotes often incorporate anti-counterfeiting features and national motifs.