Vanuatu Coin List

The official currency of Vanuatu is the vatu, introduced in 1981 after the country's independence. Vanuatu's monetary system has evolved throughout its history, reflecting the political and economic changes of the nation.

Current currency in circulation

The vatu is divided into 100 cents, although in practice fractional coins are not used. Coins in circulation include denominations of 5, 10, 20, 20, 50 and 100 vatu, while banknotes are issued in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 vatu. The Reserve Bank of Vanuatu is responsible for the issuance and regulation of the national currency.

Monetary history and relevant facts

Before the introduction of the vatu, Vanuatu used the New Hebrides franc, inherited from the joint Franco-British colonial period. A notable event in Vanuatu numismatics was the issuance of commemorative coins in 2015 to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. In addition, in 2010, Vanuatu launched a series of collector coins depicting the archipelago's unique flora and fauna, thus promoting its biodiversity through numismatics.