What currency is used in Iran called?

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By Felicity Long

Overview of Iranian Currency

Iran is a country located in the Middle East with a population of over 82 million. The official currency used in Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR). The Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran is responsible for managing the country’s monetary policy and issuing currency.

The Iranian Rial (IRR): Introduction

The Iranian Rial is the official currency of Iran and has been in circulation since 1932. It is divided into 100 subunits known as "dinars" but these are no longer used in practice. The abbreviation for Iranian Rial is "IRR" and the symbol used for it is ﷼. The Rial is widely used in Iran for daily transactions such as buying goods and services.

Historical Background of IRR

The Iranian Rial was first introduced as the official currency of Iran under the Pahlavi dynasty in 1932. It replaced the Toman, which was the currency used in Iran at that time. The name "Rial" was derived from the Spanish word "real" which was used as a currency in Spain and its colonies. Over the years, the Iranian Rial has undergone several changes in value due to various economic and political factors.

Physical Appearance of IRR

The Iranian Rial banknotes are made of paper and come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000. The banknotes feature Iranian historical and cultural landmarks, as well as famous personalities. The coins are made of a combination of copper, nickel, and zinc and come in denominations of 50, 100, and 500 Rials.

Denominations of Iranian Rial

The Iranian Rial is available in both coins and banknotes. The coins are available in denominations of 50, 100, and 500 Rials. The banknotes are available in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000.

Current Value of Iranian Rial

As of August 2021, 1 USD is equivalent to approximately 42,000 Iranian Rials. The value of the Iranian Rial has been subject to fluctuations due to various economic and political factors. In recent years, the value of the Iranian Rial has been affected by the impact of international sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States.

Factors Affecting IRR Value

The value of the Iranian Rial is influenced by several factors such as inflation, international sanctions, political instability, and fluctuations in the global oil market. The impact of these factors on the value of the Iranian Rial can be significant and lead to fluctuations in its value.

Exchange Rates for IRR

The exchange rate for the Iranian Rial is subject to fluctuations depending on various economic and political factors. The official exchange rate set by the Central Bank of Iran is usually lower than the market exchange rate, which is determined by supply and demand. It is important to note that foreign exchange transactions in Iran are subject to restrictions.

Using Foreign Currency in Iran

Foreign currencies such as US dollars, euros, and pounds sterling can be used in Iran for certain transactions. However, it is advisable to carry Iranian Rials for daily transactions such as buying goods and services. It is also important to note that some businesses in Iran may only accept Iranian Rials as payment.

Limitations on Foreign Exchange

Foreign exchange transactions in Iran are subject to certain restrictions. The use of credit cards issued by foreign banks is not allowed in Iran, and travelers are advised to carry cash. The amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Iran is also subject to restrictions.

Future Outlook for Iranian Currency

The future outlook for the Iranian Rial is subject to various economic and political factors. The impact of international sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, as well as fluctuations in the global oil market, are likely to continue to affect the value of the Iranian Rial.

Conclusion: The Importance of IRR

The Iranian Rial is the official currency of Iran and is widely used in the country for daily transactions. The value of the Iranian Rial is influenced by various economic and political factors, and its future outlook is subject to uncertainty. It is important for travelers to carry Iranian Rials for daily transactions, and to be aware of the restrictions on foreign exchange transactions in Iran.

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Felicity Long

Felicity Long, a seasoned travel journalist with 15+ years of experience, specializes in exploring Europe, family travel, and skiing, as evident in her book "Great Escapes: New England" (The Countryman Press). She edits the Europe eNewsletter and contributes significantly to TravelAsker's destinations sections. Felicity has received esteemed awards, including the Cacique and Yo Leonardo Awards, in recognition of her outstanding international travel writing accomplishments.

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