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About the Armenian Dram (AMD)

What Is the Armenian Dram (AMD)?

The Armenian Dram (AMD), the national currency of the Republic of Armenia, plays a pivotal role in the country's economy. Represented by the ISO code AMD and symbolized as ֏, the Dram was introduced on November 22, 1993, after the country gained independence from the Soviet Union. The Armenian Dram is the sole legal tender in Armenia, and it is used for all transactions within the country.

The Armenian Dram is issued by the Central Bank of Armenia. Established on March 27, 1993, the Central Bank is responsible for the issuance, regulation, and circulation of the Armenian Dram, as well as implementing the monetary policy of Armenia.

What Is the History of AMD?

The first instance of a currency called "Dram" in Armenia dates back to the period from 1199 to 1375, when silver coins named dram or tram were issued. The Dram underwent several transformations, influenced by various regimes, including the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union. Following Armenia's independence from the Soviet Union on September 21, 1991, the Dram was introduced on November 22, 1993, replacing the Russian ruble.

Notes and Coins of AMD

The official symbol of the Armenian Dram, designed in 1995, is represented by the first capital letter of the word Dram (Դ) with two horizontal lines (֏). Coins in Armenia are available in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 drams, introduced in two series - the first in 1994 and the second between 2003 and 2004.

Armenia has issued three series of banknotes. The first series was introduced in 1993 and was in circulation until 2005. The second series, issued from 1998 onwards, is still in use. A third series was introduced in 2018, featuring denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 drams.

Exchange Rates and Economic Implications

The Dram was initially valued at Rbls 200 = 1 dram (US$1 = 404 Drams) in 1993. The exchange rate of the Dram is subject to fluctuations based on global and regional economic conditions. The Dram’s value and exchange rates are crucial for Armenia's trade and economic stability.

Is AMD Pegged to USD?

The Armenian Dram (AMD) is not pegged to the United States Dollar (USD). Armenia operates a floating exchange rate system, where the value of the dram is determined by market forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange market. This means that the exchange rate of the dram against the USD and other currencies can fluctuate based on economic factors, market sentiment, and other variables.