Lesotho Banknotes Catalog

The history of banknotes in Lesotho reflects the economic and political evolution of this small kingdom located in South Africa. Since its independence in 1966, Lesotho has undergone significant changes in its monetary system, going through different banknote issues that represent its national and cultural identity.

Current banknotes in circulation

Currently, banknotes in circulation in Lesotho are issued by the Central Bank of Lesotho and are denominated in loti, the country's official currency. Denominations include 10, 20, 50, 50, 100 and 200 maloti. These banknotes feature portraits of the royal family of Lesotho, as well as images of landmarks and cultural elements of the country, such as the traditional mokorotlo hat and indigenous animals.

Old banknotes and landmarks in notafilia

Prior to the introduction of the loti in 1980, Lesotho used the South African rand. Lesotho's first own banknotes were issued in 1981, with denominations of 2, 5 and 10 maloti. An important milestone in Lesotho's notafilia was the 1989 commemorative issue, which celebrated the 50th birthday of King Moshoeshoe II. In 2010, a new series of banknotes with enhanced security features was introduced, including for the first time the 200 maloti denomination.