South Arabia, a historical region now largely part of Yemen, has seen various coinage systems reflecting its complex political history. Before adopting a unified currency, different states within South Arabia used the Indian Rupee, East African Shilling, and Maria Theresa Thaler, especially in trade. In the 1960s, the Federation of South Arabia introduced the South Arabian Dinar (SAD), with coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 fils, featuring designs symbolizing local heritage and British influence.
After South Yemen’s independence in 1967, the South Yemeni Dinar (YDD) replaced the SAD, maintaining similar denominations and imagery showcasing revolutionary themes. However, following Yemen’s unification in 1990, the Yemeni Rial (YER) became the sole currency. Today, Yemeni coins in circulation include 1, 5, 10, and 20 rials, primarily made of aluminum or steel due to cost considerations. These coins often depict national symbols such as the coat of arms, historical landmarks, and calligraphic inscriptions.
Inflation and currency reforms have significantly shaped South Arabia’s coinage. While earlier coins contain silver, modern issues use cheaper metals to accommodate economic fluctuations. Rising inflation has also led to the declining usage of smaller denominations, with higher-value becoming more common. Despite these changes, Yemeni coinage continues to reflect the region’s rich history and evolving economic landscape.
