Togo's coinage history is closely tied to its colonial past and its integration into the West African monetary system. Before independence in 1960, Togo used French colonial coins denominated in francs. After joining the West African Monetary Union (WAMU) in 1962, Togo adopted the West African CFA franc (XOF), which remains its official currency. The CFA franc is shared by multiple countries in the region and is issued by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO).
The coins currently in use include denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 250, and 500 francs, which are standardized across CFA franc-using countries. These coins often feature designs symbolizing unity and development within the West African region. Common motifs include agricultural tools, native wildlife, and patterns representing regional cooperation. The reverse typically bears the denomination and the emblem of the Central Bank of West African States.
Made from aluminum, nickel, or nickel-plated steel, these coins are lightweight and durable, designed to withstand heavy circulation. Inflation has impacted the purchasing power of lower denominations, making higher-value coins more practical in everyday use. Togo's coins serve as a functional currency while reflecting its membership in a broader regional economic and monetary union.
