Georgian Lari
The Georgian lari embodies a cultural crossroads where ancient script, literary heritage and modern statehood converge into a distinctive currency.
Quick Facts
Country: Georgia
Code: GEL
Symbol: ₾
System: Decimal (1 Lari = 100 Tetri)
Status: In circulation
Issuer: National Bank of Georgia
The Story of the Georgian Lari
The Georgian Lari was introduced in 1995, ending the catastrophic hyperinflation of the coupon era (1993–1995) and restoring monetary stability after one of the most severe economic collapses in the post-Soviet space. Its name derives from an old Georgian word meaning “treasure,” while its subunit, tetri, refers to “white,” echoing historical silver coinage. The reform marked not just a technical reset but a symbolic national recovery, establishing the lari as a foundation for economic rebuilding, institutional development and renewed global integration under the National Bank of Georgia.
Design & Symbolism
Georgian lari banknotes are deeply rooted in cultural and intellectual symbolism, presenting figures such as Niko Pirosmani and Shota Rustaveli within carefully constructed visual narratives. The 1 lari note features Pirosmani’s iconic “Deer,” a globally recognized example of Georgian primitivist art, while higher denominations reference Rustaveli’s epic “The Knight in the Panther’s Skin,” anchoring the currency in literary tradition. The designs are enriched with the unique Mkhedruli script and symbolic elements such as the Borjgali sun motif and subtle vineyard references, reflecting Georgia’s status as one of the world’s oldest wine-producing cultures. Together, these elements create a cohesive identity where art, language and heritage are inseparable.
For collectors
For collectors, the Georgian Lari offers one of the most compelling modern collecting narratives in the Caucasus. Early issues represent the immediate post-reform stabilization period, while the 2016–2019 “Lari rebirth” series stands out for its advanced security and refined design, produced by leading printers such as Giesecke+Devrient and Polska Wytwórnia Papierów Wartościowych. The introduction of the official lari symbol (₾) in 2014, derived from Georgian script, further enhances its modern identity. The combination of cultural depth, strong visual cohesion and high production quality makes the lari a standout among post-Soviet currencies.
The Georgian lari remains a symbol of Caucasian resilience, evolving into a highly secure and culturally rich currency.