Mauritania was once part of French West Africa, where the currency used was the West African CFA franc (XOF), shared by all the French colonies in the area. After gaining independence from France in 1960, Mauritania introduced its own currency in 1973, the Mauritanian ouguiya (MRO), replacing the CFA franc at a rate of 1 ouguiya = 5 francs. Unlike most currencies, the ouguiya isn't based on a decimal system, it's divided into 5 smaller units known as khoums.
In 2018, Mauritania redenominated its currency to combat inflation and simplify financial transactions. A new ouguiya (MRU) was introduced, with one new ouguiya equivalent to 10 old ouguiyas. The redenomination aimed to create a simpler and more stable currency system.
The Mauritanian currency consists of coins in denominations of 1/5 ouguiya, 1 ouguiya, 2 ouguiya, 5 ouguiya, 10 ouguiya, and 20 ouguiya. The 1/5 ouguiya coin is made of copper-plated steel, while the 1 ouguiya coin is crafted from nickel-plated steel. The 2 ouguiya is made from stainless steel, and the 5 ouguiya from nickel-plated steel.
The 10 ouguiya coin is bi-metallic, with a nickel-plated steel center and a brass-plated steel ring. The 20 ouguiya coin is tri-metallic, featuring a bronze-plated steel center plug, a nickel-plated steel inner ring, and a brass-plated steel outer ring.
These coins reflect Mauritanian culture, heritage, and Islamic influences. The designs on the coins often feature motifs significant to Mauritania, such as the crescent and star, symbols commonly associated with Islam. Additionally, the coins may include traditional patterns and other references to Mauritanian heritage.
