Wednesday, August 29, 2012

$ Money $

Recently, actually two days ago, Costa Rica issued three updated bills to their currency (called colones). I really like the money here; the bills are colorful and have animals and plants that are native to Costa Rica. Could that get any better?
The exchange rate is roughly 500 colones to 1 dollar.
This is the smallest denomination. 
Value: $2
This is my favorite bill! I love the shark and starfish!
Value: $4
This is one of the newly issued bills. This is my second favorite. 
Value: $10
Another newly issued bill. Sloth!
Value: $20
Value: $40
The last of the new bills. I love the purple and the butterfly!
Value: $100
There was quite a bit of controversy regarding the 50 mil bill. Prior to it's release, the largest bill was 20 mil. The general public didn't see the need for a bill with a higher denomination because it wouldn't be practical for everyday interactions. The 50 mil bill is not dispensed from ATMs (they are available at the bank) and will mainly be used in larger business transactions.

I have a feeling that when I return to the U.S. I'm going to miss these bright, fun bills...

In addition to bills, there are also coins. 

(There is also a 500 colones coin)




2 comments:

  1. Thats so neat you got to be there to experience the money updates firsthand. Make sure you get souvenirs of the old and new so you can brag about the money in the "good ol days" at some point haha. They are definitely different than US bills, but in a good way. Like you said, who doesnt like bright colors and cool animals? - Ryan

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  2. What!?!? No jaguars???? Ridonkulous.
    Hope you are well, see you in a couple of weeks.

    -John

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