The Malagasy Ariary, abbreviated as MGA, is one of the few non-decimal currencies still in use today. Unlike most currencies that follow a decimal system, the Ariary is based on the “5-to-1” model, where five iraimbilanja equals one Ariary. This unique structure is a nod to Madagascar’s rich history, as the Ariary and iraimbilanja were denominations used in the pre-colonial Merina Kingdom, further emphasizing the country’s cultural heritage.

Introduced in 2005, the Ariary replaced the older Malagasy franc at a rate of 1 Ariary to 5 Malagasy francs, streamlining financial transactions. The banknotes are adorned with illustrations showcasing Madagascar’s incredible biodiversity, from the iconic lemurs to the unique baobab trees, highlighting the island’s ecological significance and its commitment to conservation.