Algerian Dinar (DZD)
The dinar has been Algeria's currency since 1964, two years after independence from France, when it replaced the Algerian new franc. The Bank of Algeria maintains tight currency controls, and the dinar is not freely convertible outside the country.
DZD ⇄ USD Converter
History
Algeria used the French-administered Algerian franc through independence in 1962. The Bank of Algeria, established that same year, introduced the dinar in April 1964 as a fully independent currency. Since then, Algeria has maintained relatively strict capital and currency controls, with the dinar's official exchange rate managed by the central bank and a separate, unofficial parallel market rate that has often diverged from it.
Denominations
Algerian dinar banknotes currently circulate in these denominations:
- 200, 500 dinars — lower-value notes
- 1,000, 2,000 dinars — common higher-value notes
Coins are issued in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 dinars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the currency symbol for the dinar?
It's commonly written as DA or د.ج. Its ISO 4217 currency code is DZD.
Can I exchange Algerian dinars outside Algeria?
It's difficult — the dinar is not freely convertible and is rarely traded outside the country, so it's best exchanged locally through authorized banks.
Is there a difference between the official and street exchange rate?
Yes, Algeria has historically had a notable gap between the central bank's official rate and informal parallel-market rates, reflecting currency controls.
Where can I see rates for other African currencies?
Check the full currency directory on the African Currencies homepage, which covers all 54 African countries.