Iraqi Dinar

The Iraqi dinar carries the weight of Mesopotamia—where writing was first carved into clay and civilisation itself learned to record.

Quick Facts

Country: Iraq

Code: IQD

Symbol: ع.د

System: Decimal (1 Dinar = 1000 Fils)

Status: In circulation

Issuer: Central Bank of Iraq

The Story of the Iraqi Dinar

Introduced in 1932, the dinar marked Iraq’s transition beyond British mandate influence. Its most defining chapter emerged during the 1990s sanctions period, creating two parallel currencies: high-quality pre-sanction "Swiss dinars" in the north and locally printed "Saddam dinars" in the rest of the country. This dual system remains one of the most extraordinary monetary splits in modern numismatics, reflecting a period of profound national rupture.

Design & Symbolism

Iraqi banknotes are deeply rooted in Mesopotamian iconography. The Spiral Minaret of Samarra and the Ishtar Gate of Babylon evoke ancient grandeur, while the Hammurabi Code stela represents one of humanity’s earliest legal systems. After 2003, a complete transformation took place as production returned to De La Rue, introducing a new generation of high-security banknotes defined by precision engraving and advanced optical elements.

For collectors

For collectors, the Iraqi Dinar presents a uniquely stratified field. The “Swiss dinar” versus “Saddam dinar” divide offers a rare case of parallel currencies. Sanctions-era notes, despite their crude production, are increasingly scarce in high-grade condition due to heavy circulation. High-denomination Saddam issues—especially the iconic 10,000 dinar note—have become defining relics of a vanished political era.

The Iraqi dinar remains the official currency of Iraq, defined by its return to global printing excellence.

Explore the Iraqi Dinar Banknotes Collection