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Myanmar Kyat (MMK)

Myanmar Kyat · K · Official currency of Myanmar

History

The Myanmar kyat (K) has been issued by the Central Bank of Myanmar since its introduction after independence in 1952. It has undergone several abrupt currency reforms (including the withdrawal of high-value notes), leaving its face values relatively large compared to price levels.

Banknote Denominations

Seven denominations circulate: K50, K100, K200, K500, K1,000, K5,000, and K10,000, each featuring traditional Myanmar motifs and animals.

Traveler Tips

Exchange rates can be quite volatile, so it's safer to check the latest rate at a bank or licensed money changer and exchange smaller amounts at a time rather than all at once. There's a strong local preference for crisp, unfolded bills — notes that are crumpled or marked are sometimes refused. Cash, especially small denominations, is essential in many areas given limited card payment networks.

Issuing authority
Central Bank of Myanmar
Introduced
Founded 1990
Sub-unit
1 kyat = 100 pya (effectively unused today)

You can view the real banknote designs on the Central Bank of Myanmar's official page.

See Myanmar Kyat banknotes at today's exchange rate →