At a glance
- ISO 4217 code
- ADF
- Numeric code
- 020
- Symbol
- Fr (also ADF)
- Subunit
- Centime (1 Franc = 100 Centimes)
- Status
- Demonetized
- Issuing authority
- Banque de la Vallée d'Andorre
- Jurisdiction
- Principality of Andorra
More currencies: Active · Ancient & Historical · Demonetized
Overview
The Andorran Franc (ADF) was the official currency of Andorra from 1960 to 2002. It was issued by Banque de la Vallée d'Andorre (the Andorran bank). The Franc floated on foreign exchange markets and served as the currency for Europe's smallest democracy and a mountain microstate. The currency was replaced by the Euro on January 1, 2002.
Replacement History
The Andorran Franc was replaced by the Euro on January 1, 2002, as Andorra officially adopted the euro currency. Andorra was not an EU member but used the euro through a special agreement. The final exchange rate: 1 EUR = 6.55957 ADF (same as French Franc). Old banknotes and coins were withdrawn from circulation.
Final Denominations (at demonetization)
Final Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 Centimes
Final Banknotes: 50, 100, 500 Francs
Withdrawal: Completed by 2002; old currency no longer in circulation
Economic Context at Demonetization
Andorra's tiny economy (30,000 population) was based on tourism and duty-free shopping. Euro adoption solidified ties with neighboring France and Spain, both eurozone members.
Notable Characteristics
- Microstate currency: Andorra's uniquely small currency for a sovereign nation; tourism economy dominance
- Co-princes governance: Andorran unique system with French and Spanish co-princes; currency symbol of sovereignty
- Ski tourism: Mountain economy; winter sports dominance; European vacation destination; currency of tourism
Legacy
The Andorran Franc is now obsolete. Its replacement symbolized Andorra's integration into the European monetary system despite its non-EU status.