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Nicaragua
Nicaraguan Cordoba (NIO)
Curiosities about the currency
The córdoba is the currency of Nicaragua and was created in 1912. It is issued by the National Bank of Nicaragua. Previously, the real dime was used in the country as a currency dependent on the US dollar and the córdoba oro was used to avoid inflation. Its symbol is C$.
The banknotes of Nicaragua in circulation are 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 NIO. There are also commemorative banknotes of 5 córdobas, but they are not in circulation. The latest series, issued between 2014 and 2017, include polymer banknotes to enhance security.
The fraction of a córdoba is 100 centavos. Currently, there are coins in Nicaragua of 1, 5, and 10 córdobas, and of 5, 10, 25, and 50 centavos. All of them are made of steel, but they are coated with copper, brass, or nickel to make them more resistant to everyday use.
The Nicaraguan córdoba received this name in honour of Francisco Hernández de Córdoba, one of the first Spaniards to arrive in this territory. He was the founder of Granada and León, two of the most important cities in the country.
In the past, there were 1 and 5 cordoba banknotes that were later replaced by coins of the same denominations. Nowadays, they are highly valuable collector's items and very difficult to find.
What do the banknotes/coins look like?
Front part
*The banknotes and coins correspond to the newest issued series and are for reference. Colours may vary and there may be more designs than those shown.
