When it comes to the basic unit of currency for Togo, it is known as the West African CFA franc (XOF). The West African CFA franc is the official currency not only for Togo but also for seven other countries in West Africa, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, and Senegal.

The West African CFA franc was introduced in 1945 and is issued by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO). The currency is denoted by the symbol "CFA" and is subdivided into 100 smaller units called centimes. However, due to the low value of centimes, they are no longer in circulation and are not commonly used.

One important thing to note is that the West African CFA franc is not interchangeable with the Central African CFA franc, which is used by six countries in Central Africa. Each currency has its own exchange rate and cannot be used in the other region.

In Togo, the West African CFA franc is widely accepted and used for daily transactions. It is available in both coins and banknotes. The coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 francs, while banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 francs. The banknotes feature prominent figures from Togo's history and landmarks.

For travelers visiting Togo, it is recommended to exchange their currency for West African CFA francs. Exchange services can be found at airports, banks, and authorized currency exchange offices. It is advisable to check the current exchange rates to ensure a fair transaction.

When using the West African CFA franc in Togo, it is important to handle the currency with care and avoid accepting damaged or torn banknotes, as they may not be accepted by vendors or establishments. Additionally, it is always advisable to carry smaller denominations for convenience, as some establishments may not have sufficient change for larger bills.

In conclusion, the West African CFA franc is the basic unit of currency for Togo. Being aware of the currency's denominations, exchange rates, and handling guidelines can help ensure a smooth and convenient experience when using it in Togo.

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