Which currency was used in Pakistan in the past?
Before Pakistan became independent in 1947, it used the Indian Rupee. This currency was controlled by the Reserve Bank of India. At that time, the Indian Rupee had pictures of British kings and queens. People in all parts of British India, including what is now Pakistan, used this money.
After independence on August 14, 1947, Pakistan did not have its own money right away. So, it continued using the Indian Rupee for a while. However, Pakistan added the words “Government of Pakistan” stamped on these Indian notes. This helped Pakistan show that the money was now valid in its own country. These overstamped notes were used until June 30, 1948.
Then, on July 1, 1948, Pakistan introduced its own currency, called the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). This happened when the State Bank of Pakistan was created. At first, the Pakistani Rupee was worth the same as the Indian Rupee. The first Pakistani notes showed symbols like the crescent moon and star, which are important in Pakistan’s culture.
Besides banknotes, Pakistan also started making coins in 1948. These coins had different values and also showed national symbols.
Over time, Pakistan changed the look of its money. Later notes featured the portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the country’s founder, and famous landmarks. Today, Pakistani money has many security features and comes in several colors.
Summary:
| Time Period | Currency Used | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Before 1947 | Indian Rupee | Issued by Reserve Bank of India |
| Aug 1947 – Jun 1948 | Indian Rupee (stamped) | Overstamped “Government of Pakistan” |
| From July 1948 | Pakistani Rupee (PKR) | Issued by State Bank of Pakistan |