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Argentine Peso (ARS)

Argentine Peso · $ · Official currency of Argentina

History

The Argentine peso ($) has undergone repeated currency reforms that dropped zeros to address recurring hyperinflation. The current peso was introduced in 1992, exchanging 10,000 old units for 1 new one.

Banknote Denominations

Circulation is dominated by high-value notes such as $100, $200, $500, $1,000, and $2,000, with new denominations issued frequently due to severe inflation. Notes feature Argentine flora and fauna on the reverse.

Traveler Tips

Given the country's high inflation, exchange rates can shift frequently, so it's especially important to check the latest rate right before your visit. The gap between the official rate and the real market rate (often called the 'blue dollar' rate) can be significant, so it's safer to use a trusted bank or licensed money changer. Card payments are widely accepted, but the real cost can vary a lot depending on when you're charged, so it's worth planning ahead.

Issuing authority
Banco Central de la República Argentina
Introduced
Founded 1935
Sub-unit
1 peso = 100 centavos (effectively unused today)

You can view the real banknote designs on the Banco Central de la República Argentina's official page.

See Argentine Peso banknotes at today's exchange rate →