Honduran Lempira Banknotes (HNL)

The Honduran lempira is a national currency defined by historical identity, cultural heritage and long-term continuity within Central America.

Quick Facts

Country: Honduras

Code: HNL

Symbol: L

System: Decimal (1 Lempira = 100 Centavos)

Status: In circulation

Issuer: Central Bank of Honduras

The Story of the Honduran Lempira

Introduced in 1931 to replace the peso, the lempira was named after the Lenca leader who resisted Spanish conquest. This unique naming convention embeds indigenous resistance directly into the nation’s monetary identity. Since its inception, the currency has served as a stable framework for Honduras, bridging colonial history with modern statehood.

Design & Symbolism

Banknotes integrate historical and archaeological themes. The 1 lempira note features Lempira alongside the Copán archaeological site and its Hieroglyphic Stairway. Other denominations honour figures like Francisco Morazán, the visionary of Central American unity. Modern issues, such as the 200 lempiras bicentennial note, expand this narrative with vibrant biodiversity, including the scarlet macaw.

For collectors

For collectors, the Honduran lempira offers a field built around Mayan heritage and indigenous resistance. The red 1 lempira note is an iconic cornerstone, while high-grade examples from the mid-20th century are increasingly scarce due to tropical humidity. Modern commemorative issues, produced by leading international security printers, attract interest for their advanced security and vivid coloration.

The Honduran lempira remains in circulation, representing a stable monetary system anchored in historical identity.