Nicaragua

Nicaraguan banknotes from the 1990s currency reform to the colourful polymer córdobas of today, including the tiny centavo notes of 1991 and, when in stock, the complete 2014 polymer set.

Uncirculated notes start at a few dollars, which makes Nicaragua an easy and attractive country to add to a Latin American collection.

History and frequently asked questions below ↓

About Nicaraguan banknotes

In the late 1980s Nicaragua suffered severe hyperinflation. In 1990–91 the government introduced the córdoba oro, worth 5 million old córdobas, together with new notes and even paper centavo notes for small change. Since then the Banco Central de Nicaragua has moved many of its notes to polymer, with bright colours and see-through windows.

For more from the region see our Americas collection and our polymer banknotes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the córdoba oro?

The new córdoba introduced in 1990–91 to end hyperinflation, at a rate of 5,000,000 old córdobas to one córdoba oro. It is still Nicaragua's currency today.

Why are there centavo banknotes?

After the reform, small values such as 1, 5 and 25 centavos were issued as paper notes. They are inexpensive and popular as a curiosity.

Are Nicaraguan banknotes polymer?

Many of the current Nicaraguan notes are printed on polymer.

Are your Nicaragua banknotes genuine?

Yes. Every Nicaragua note we sell is a genuine banknote, never a copy or replica. Each listing states the grade, gives the Pick catalogue number where one exists and shows the front and back, and every order ships tracked from Hungary.