Mauritanian Ouguiya Banknotes (MRU)

The Mauritanian ouguiya is one of only two non-decimal currencies today, defined by a 2018 redenomination and a full transition to polymer.

Quick Facts

Country: Mauritania

Code: MRU

Symbol: UM

System: Non-decimal (1 Ouguiya = 5 Khoums)

Status: In circulation

Issuer: Central Bank of Mauritania

The Story of the Mauritanian Ouguiya

Introduced in 1973 after leaving the CFA zone, the ouguiya maintains a rare 1:5 non-decimal structure. A major 2018 redenomination (10:1) introduced the new MRU series, switching entirely to polymer. This material shift was a practical response to the extreme heat and abrasive dust of the Sahara, which rapidly destroyed earlier paper notes. The reform modernized the system while preserving its traditional Sahelian trade logic.

Design & Symbolism

Modern MRU notes use Guardian™ polymer with transparent windows and colour-shifting security features. Designs prominently feature the Chinguetti Mosque and Arabic calligraphy as structured visual forms. The transition to polymer allowed for the integration of metallic elements and advanced security that were absent in the legacy paper series, which focused on more traditional engraving styles.

For collectors

For collectors, the ouguiya offers a unique "mathematical rarity" and a clear redenomination boundary. Pre-2018 MRO paper notes in UNC condition are scarce survivors of a brutal environment. The new polymer series shifts the focus to design completeness and modern security. The currency's appeal lies in its combination of Saharan architecture, redenomination history and its rare non-decimal monetary framework.

The Mauritanian ouguiya remains in circulation, preserved within a modern polymer-based system since the 2018 reform.