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Currency of Albania From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The 1 Lek coin has a value of one lek and is composed of copper-covered steel (2008 and 2013 issues) or bronze (1996), depicting a Dalmatian pelican on its obverse.[1] The 1 Lek coin was firstly minted in 1926 and has been redesigned several times.
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The coin dates from 1926, when Albania minted its first Lek coins. The obverse side featured a lion, the year 1926, and "Shqipni". During Albania's Italian rule, it featured the fasces[2] and during Communist regime the coin featured the Albanian coat of arms.[3] In 1969, the national bank minted coins to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Albanian Liberation.
Under the democratic government, the coin was redesigned and reminted in 1996 featuring its current design.[4]
The coins are composed of copper-covered steel, with a diameter of 18 mm and a mass of 3 grams. The coins' edges are smooth. The coins have been used from 1997.
The obverse side features the mint year, "Republic of Albania" writing and a pelican in the center.[1]
The reverse side of the coin features its value and a crown wreath.[1]
While still legal tender, one lek coins do not find much usage currently. Their value, equivalent to less than a penny or 1 euro cent coin, is so small that many citizens will refuse to accept these coins as change from markets, unintentionally creating a system similar to take a penny, leave a penny.
The coin is sometimes referred to as a "pelikan" (pelican) because of its reverse design.
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