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Moldovan leu · MDL

L symbol · 1 country currently using this currency.

Currency info

Adopted: 1993

Currency family: Other

The word 'leu' means 'lion' in Romanian, reflecting Moldova's historical and cultural ties to the region.

  • Introduced in 1993 following Moldova's independence from the Soviet Union, replacing the Soviet ruble
  • Name derives from the historical Moldavian currency, the leu, used before Soviet occupation
  • Experienced significant devaluation during the 1990s economic transition period
  • Pegged to various currencies before adopting a managed float system in the 2000s
  • Currently managed by the National Bank of Moldova

Countries currently using this currency

Related

Historical predecessor

Soviet ruble