10 Fascinating Facts About Tajikistan Currency (TJS)

The official currency of Tajikistan is the Tajikistani Somoni (TJS), managed by the National Bank of Tajikistan. 

In this article, we’ll explore the country’s money system and why the exchange rate matters for travellers.

1. Tajikistan currency revealed  

The Somoni (symbol SM) was introduced in 2000, replacing the Tajikistani ruble at an incredible rate of 1 Somoni for 1,000 rubles.  

It’s subdivided into 100 dirams, making it one of the world’s youngest currencies.

Overseen by the National Bank of Tajikistan, the Somoni reflects the country’s economic growth and cultural heritage – right down to the heroes printed on its colourful notes.

2. The Somoni was named after a legendary hero

The Somoni takes its name from Ismoil Somoni, a 10th-century ruler who laid the foundations of the Republic of Tajikistan’s early identity. 

His portrait appears on the 100 Somoni note, while other Tajikistani Somoni banknotes feature figures from Tajik literature, architecture, and history.

It’s more than money; it’s a tribute to Tajikistan’s story and the enduring legacy of its namesake.

3. The Somoni replaced the Tajikistani ruble overnight

When the Somoni was introduced, it marked a turning point in Tajikistan’s financial system. 

The redenomination wiped away inflationary chaos from the 1990s. 

With 1 TJS replacing 1,000 rubles, the new official currency gave the country a fresh start and greater foreign currency stability.  

4. Tajikistan’s first coins appeared only in 2001

For the first decade after independence, there were no circulating coins in Tajikistan at all, only banknotes. 

That changed in 2001, when the National Bank of Tajikistan issued the first series of Somoni coins.

These included denominations such as 50 dirams, 1, 3, and 5 Somoni, reintroducing metal money to daily life for the first time since the Soviet era.

5. There’s a rare 3-Somoni coin

If you love collecting coins, the 3 Somoni denomination might catch your eye. 

It’s an unusual value; few other currencies in the world have a “three” unit coin. 

While still legal tender, it’s rarely seen in everyday spending, making it a fun find for travellers exploring local markets and bazaars.

6. Somoni coins are made in Russia

Here’s a curious twist: Tajikistan’s coins aren’t minted at home. 

Instead, they’re struck at the Saint Petersburg Mint (Goznak) in Russia. 

Each year, some Somoni coins even get updated reverse designs celebrating Tajik culture and national events.

That means your TJS might carry a little bit of history from both Tajikistan and Russia. 

7. Banknotes that blend art and security 

The Tajiki Somoni banknotes are miniature works of art. 

From intricate security features to portraits of scholars, poets, and heroes, every note tells a story.

Over the years, the National Bank of Tajikistan has enhanced the security system, adding holographic strips, raised serial digits, and watermark portraits. 

The 500 Somoni is currently the highest denomination, introduced to reflect changing prices and inflation.

8. The Somoni is one of the world’s least-known currencies   

Outside the Republic of Tajikistan, the Tajikistani Somoni (TJS) is one of the least-traded currencies on Earth.   

You won’t often see SM to GBP or SM to pounds listed at most bureaux abroad. 
Because international tourism and trade remain modest, foreign currency exchange is mostly handled within the country, with the National Bank keeping tight control over the exchange rate.

Travellers exchanging foreign currency such as GBP or US dollars will find the average exchange rate relatively stable, thanks to the country’s managed currency system. 

9. The humble diram is fading from circulation

The diram, worth one-hundredth of a Somoni, once jingled in every pocket. 

Today, you’ll rarely see 50 dirams or other small denominations outside souvenir shops. 

Inflation and rising average prices mean these coins are becoming more of a collector’s item than a daily necessity.

Still, they remain part of the official Tajikistan currency system, a nostalgic reminder of simpler years.

While smaller denominations like dirams are still legal, their low value means most locals prefer larger notes for daily spending. 

10. How to get your Tajikistani somoni with Manor FX 

Tajikistan is a fascinating destination. If you’re planning a trip to Dushanbe or exploring the Pamir Mountains, you’ll want to organise your TJS currency exchange before you land. 

Buying Tajikistan currency online with Manor FX is quick, secure, and convenient.

How to get your Tajik somoni online:

1. Pick your currency: Choose Tajikistani Somoni (TJS) from our list.
2. Check your live exchange rate: See the Tajikistan currency rate before you buy.
3. Select delivery or collection: Get it sent to your door or collect in London.
4. Pay securely: Pay by card, by bank transfer, or choose to pay on collection.
5. Get confirmation: We’ll email your order details straight away. 

Tip: Manor FX also offers excellent value on Tajikistan currency to GBP exchanges, so you can exchange any leftover holiday money with us at excellent rates when you return.  

Recap: A small currency with a big story 

From its Russian-minted coins to the Ismoil Somoni legend, the Tajikistani Somoni tells the tale of a nation forging its identity through money. 

Introduced in 2000 and subdivided into 100 dirams, it remains a proud emblem of the Republic of Tajikistan, rich in design, history, and spirit.

Whether you’re interested in Tajik literature, quirky coins, or getting the best exchange rate, the Somoni proves that even a little-known currency can have a fascinating story to tell.

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