Here is a comprehensive financial historical report of The Gambia, in International English, as requested:

Financial Historical Report of The Gambia

Basic Data

• Country ISO Code: GM

• Official Language: English

• Language ISO Code: en

• Current Official Currency: Gambian Dalasi

• Currency ISO Code: GMD

Currency History in The Gambia

1. Colonial Currency Period

• During British colonial rule, The Gambia used the British West African pound, which was pegged to the British pound sterling.

• The British West African pound was used across several British colonies in West Africa until the 1960s.

2. Introduction of the Gambian Dalasi (1965–Present)

• The Gambian Dalasi was introduced in 1965, replacing the British West African pound at a rate of 1 pound = 4 dalasis.

• The Dalasi is subdivided into 100 bututs.

• The Central Bank of The Gambia, established in 1971, is responsible for issuing and regulating the currency.

Details of the Current Currency

• Singular Name: Dalasi

• Plural Name: Dalasis

• Subdivision: 1 Dalasi = 100 Bututs

• Issuing Authority: Central Bank of The Gambia

• Common Coin Denominations: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 Bututs; 1 Dalasi

• Common Banknote Denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 Dalasis

Designs and Symbols

• Gambian coins and banknotes feature national symbols such as the Coat of Arms, local wildlife (e.g., the African fish eagle), and cultural motifs.

• Banknotes include images of prominent Gambian leaders and landmarks.

• The currency reflects The Gambia’s cultural heritage and natural environment.

Economic and Monetary Context

• The Gambian Dalasi has experienced periods of inflation and exchange rate fluctuations, influenced by both domestic economic policies and external factors.

• The Central Bank of The Gambia implements monetary policy aimed at maintaining price stability and supporting economic growth.

• The Dalasi is freely convertible within the country but is not widely traded internationally.

Issuance and Particularities

• The Central Bank periodically issues new series of banknotes and coins to improve security features and accommodate economic needs.

• Commemorative coins have been issued to celebrate national events and anniversaries.

• Banknotes bear the signatures of the Governor of the Central Bank and the Minister of Finance.

Current Status

• The Gambian Dalasi is the official currency and is actively used in all transactions within The Gambia.

• It remains the sole legal tender for all financial and commercial activities in the country.

This report provides a detailed overview of the monetary history and current status of The Gambia’s currency, highlighting its evolution from colonial times to the present Gambian Dalasi.