Kenyan Shilling (KES)
The Central Bank of Kenya introduced the Kenyan shilling on September 14, 1966, replacing the East African shilling at a 1:1 rate as Kenya established its own independent monetary system after independence. The earliest notes, in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 shillings, featured Kenya's first president, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, on the front.
KES ⇄ USD Converter
History
Coins followed in 1967, issued in 5, 10, 25, and 50 cent and 1 shilling denominations, minted by the Royal Mint in the UK from cupro-nickel. The most significant recent change came on May 31, 2019, when the Central Bank of Kenya issued an entirely new family of banknotes without portraits of individuals — a requirement of Kenya's 2010 constitution, which bars living or deceased persons' images on currency. The redesigned notes instead celebrate Kenya's cultural heritage and wildlife.
Denominations
Kenyan shilling banknotes currently circulate in these denominations:
- KSh50, KSh100 — common notes for everyday transactions
- KSh200, KSh500 — mid-to-higher value notes
- KSh1,000 — the highest-value note
Coins are issued in 1, 5, 10, 20, and 40 shilling denominations, with mobile money services like M-Pesa also playing an outsized role in everyday Kenyan transactions alongside physical currency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the currency symbol for the shilling?
It's commonly written as KSh or /=. Its ISO 4217 currency code is KES.
Why don't Kenyan banknotes show people anymore?
Kenya's 2010 constitution prohibits currency from bearing the portrait of any individual, living or dead — a deliberate break from the earlier notes that featured President Jomo Kenyatta.
Is the Kenyan shilling the same as other East African shillings?
No — while Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania all use "shillings" descended from the historic East African shilling, each country now issues its own distinct, non-interchangeable currency.
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.