Algerian dinar

Denominations and physical characteristics

Circulating money consists of both coins and banknotes issued by the central monetary authority. Coins and notes show national motifs such as historical figures, architecture, industry and native flora. Designs change periodically with new issues or commemorative releases.

• Subunit: 100 santeem = 1 dinar; santeem values are now rarely used because of low purchasing power.
• Banknotes and coins: issued in multiple denominations to cover small to large transactions.

History and name

The dinar was adopted on 1 April 1964 as the national currency after independence, replacing earlier franc-based money. The name "dinar" traces back to the ancient Roman denarius; the historical term survived across North Africa and the Mediterranean. See more on the coin’s historical root: Roman denarius and related developments in medieval coinage denarius history.

Role in the economy and everyday use

The dinar is legal tender for all domestic payments in Algeria. Its value and purchasing power are influenced by domestic monetary policy, oil and gas revenues, and broader economic factors. For consumers and businesses the dinar is used for wages, prices, contracts and banking; foreign exchange and travel involve regulated currency controls.

Notable facts and distinctions

Unlike some currencies, the dinar’s subunit has largely fallen out of daily use because of inflation since mid-20th century. Banknotes and coinage periodically undergo redesigns to improve security and reflect national heritage. The central bank and government oversee issuance and monetary policy to maintain stability and facilitate commerce.