![Avenue of the baobabs at sunset](https://www.manorfx.com/app/uploads/2024/07/feature-image-1-1024x683.webp)
Get to know Madagascar’s currency: 5 fascinating tidbits
What is Madagascar’s currency?
Have you ever wondered what currency they use in Madagascar? Whether you’re planning a trip, interested in world currencies, or looking to exchange some cash, you’re in the right place!
Today, we’ll explore Madagascar’s intriguing currency world, including its rich history, colourful banknotes, and practical coins.
Plus, we’ll throw in some fun and quirky facts to keep things exciting. So, let’s begin this monetary adventure together!
What is Madagascar’s currency called?
Madagascar uses the Malagasy ariary, pronounced “ah-ree-ar-ee.” The currency symbol is “Ar,” and its ISO code is MGA.
Coin denominations include 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 ariary. Banknotes come in 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 ariary.
![Beautiful tourist on an excursion in the unique limestone landscape at the Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve in Madagascar.](https://www.manorfx.com/app/uploads/2024/07/AD_4nXcNHNLwnToOIrlYaqmTAsDNc3uKzrbI5jazf9UTMiKfyar8mjGFc5EySYg-DlRPsXD4e7BMaVqU-h5m4zMdRaIJ77hsuDMZFNUMNmcX5z7ZJJ6cCyBytQ6bQzVzQgutbl-ssFKX_IQJK0cH2zai-CZfW3NTkeye947ATOT40KCg3uRLUMWWQ.jpg)
Get the best rates with Manor FX
Manor FX provides the best online exchange rates for Malagasy currency in the UK.
Planning a trip to Madagascar? Get ready for breathtaking scenery and rich culture!
Securing your holiday money before travelling to this Southeastern coast of Africa is essential. Manor FX offers Malagasy ariary at great rates, giving you more to spend.
Opt for home or office delivery, or pick up your ariary in-store. Our quick delivery and easy online ordering make getting your foreign currency a breeze. Check it off your list before travelling to Madagascar.
Buy your ariary now
Uncovering the history of Madagascar’s currency
The currency of Madagascar has a fascinating history. During the French colonial rule, Madagascar used the CFA franc. In 1961, Madagascar gained independence from France and introduced the Malagasy franc.
The Malagasy ariary was then introduced in 2005, replacing the Malagasy Franc. Madagascar’s currency evolution reflects its rich and complex history. Today, the ariary is a symbol of national pride and economic independence.
Madagascar banknotes
The Central Bank of Madagascar issues Madagascar’s colourful banknotes. They feature beautiful images of the country’s unique wildlife and landscapes, including lemurs, baobab trees, and stunning natural scenes.
The banknotes come in denominations of 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 ariary. Each note has advanced security features like watermarks and holograms to prevent counterfeiting.
Madagascar’s banknotes are not just money; they celebrate the island’s rich biodiversity and culture.
![Madagascar current banknote series](https://www.manorfx.com/app/uploads/2024/07/AD_4nXfRbSAyJsi6WGAJC6fKVKhmN23isYv6kaJi3UrhCyxeQfelaAfY-256ocTV40TcNaNRQ16vgBbFfuyQI0rKLBJYa9-UP5A8yoeAv9RlFO9HgjMlsLAjBr2fNdGvQ8cc8RYVG1tjLh9KxutteiPaa6_pxBmKkeye947ATOT40KCg3uRLUMWWQ.jpg)
Madagascar coins
Madagascar’s coins are practical and diverse. They come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 ariary. The coins are sturdy and easy to use for everyday transactions.
Each coin features unique designs that reflect Madagascar’s culture and history. They often showcase national symbols and important figures.
Using these coins is a simple and efficient way to handle small purchases. Plus, their distinctive designs make them a fun part of daily life in Madagascar!
Fun facts about Madagascar’s unique currency
Unique name: The Malagasy ariary gets its name from historical and cultural roots. “ariary” is derived from the Spanish word “real,” which means silver dollar.
Non-decimal system: One ariary equals five Iraimbilanja, making it one of the few non-decimal currencies in the world.
Colourful banknotes: Malagasy banknotes feature vibrant colours and showcase the country’s rich wildlife and cultural heritage.
Recent introduction: The ariary replaced the Malagasy franc in 2005, which had been used since 1961.
![Ring-tailed Lemur - Lemur catta large strepsirrhine primate with long, black and white ringed tail, endemic to Madagascar and endangered, in Malagasy as maky, maki or hira. Pair on the rock.](https://www.manorfx.com/app/uploads/2024/07/AD_4nXeMr3stXQ-AMGgNt-Wsh6m3HUT_OnaEw5nQMW0XyM1uZIFFxtZ2n1E6R64x6o2fmWu_TjrdWQIiYRvXKbBRNHFcYy_oKbheGHKi7oMv4k8qTdfSueJ9bGiCVHjyNO-F7XIH-OmZJJI0FljMD6My9Hz-8Oiekeye947ATOT40KCg3uRLUMWWQ.jpg)
FAQs
Need Madagascan currency but don’t know what it’s called?
Since Madagascar currency isn’t as globally recognised as major currencies like the euro or the US dollar, many people are unsure what they need when they’re looking to purchase currency.
Often, they end up searching terms like “currency in Madagascar Africa” and “Madagascar country currency”. What they’re after is the Malagasy ariary.
Do you sell Madagascar currency at Manor FX?
Yes, we do! If you need to exchange your pounds for Malagasy ariary, you’re in the right place!
Ordering your Malagasy currency online is a breeze, and we ensure safe delivery with Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. There is no fuss, just fast and secure delivery straight to your home or office.
If you’re near Heathrow, you can also visit our currency shop to pick up your ariary in person.
We’re committed to making your currency exchange process as smooth and easy as possible.
Do I convert Madagascar currency to GBP at Manor FX?
Absolutely! If you’ve returned with Malagasy ariary from your trip, there’s no need to worry.
Click the link to easily convert your ariary back to pounds.
We’re committed to providing you with great rates for your leftover currency. We value your unused money and aim to help you get the most out of it.
Exchange your Malagasy currency to GBP with just a click. Enjoy a hassle-free currency exchange experience right here!