Ethiopia, a country located in the Horn of Africa, has its own unit of currency known as the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

The Ethiopian Birr is the official currency of Ethiopia and is denoted by the currency code "ETB." It is further divided into smaller denominations called cents. One Birr is equivalent to 100 cents. The currency is issued and regulated by the National Bank of Ethiopia, the country's central bank.

The Ethiopian Birr has been the basic unit of currency in Ethiopia since it was introduced in 1894 during the reign of Emperor Menelik II. Prior to the Birr, Ethiopia had various regional currencies. However, the Birr was established to provide a unified and standardized currency throughout the country.

The Ethiopian Birr comes in both coins and banknotes. The coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, as well as 1 Birr. Banknotes, on the other hand, are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 Birr. The banknotes feature prominent Ethiopian historical figures, landmarks, and wildlife.

While the Ethiopian Birr is the main currency used in Ethiopia, it is important to note that foreign currencies such as the US Dollar and the Euro are also accepted in certain establishments, particularly in tourist areas or for large transactions. However, it is advisable to carry the local currency for day-to-day expenses and when traveling to remote regions.

When visiting Ethiopia, it is recommended to exchange your currency for Ethiopian Birr at authorized banks or exchange bureaus. Currency exchange services are readily available at international airports, major hotels, and various locations throughout the country. It is advisable to carry smaller denominations of Birr for convenience, as larger notes may not always be accepted in smaller establishments.

In conclusion, the Ethiopian Birr serves as the basic unit of currency in Ethiopia. It is regulated by the National Bank of Ethiopia and has been used since 1894. Understanding the currency and having some Birr on hand is essential when visiting the country to ensure smooth transactions and accessibility to local services and products.

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