Currency in Egypt – The Egyptian Pound (EGP)

What currency should you bring to Egypt?

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound, internationally abbreviated as EGP (ISO 4217 code).

Key Facts About the Egyptian Pound

If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, it’s essential to get familiar with the local currency.

How is the Egyptian Pound Divided?

The Egyptian pound is subdivided into 100 piastres.

Banknotes currently in circulation include:

• 25 piastres
• 50 piastres
• 1 Egyptian pound
• 5 Egyptian pounds
• 10 Egyptian pounds
• 20 Egyptian pounds
• 50 Egyptian pounds
• 100 Egyptian pounds
• 200 Egyptian pounds

Coins in circulation include:

• 5, 10, 20, 25, and 50 piastres
• 1 Egyptian pound

Design and Cultural Symbols on Egyptian Banknotes

Egyptian banknotes feature rich imagery inspired by the country’s history and culture. The reverse sides include:

• 25 piastres – Coat of arms of Egypt
• 50 piastres – Pharaoh Ramesses II
• 1 EGP – Abu Simbel Temple
• 5 EGP – The god Hapi, deity of the Nile’s annual flood
• 10 EGP – Pharaoh Khafre
• 20 EGP – Pharaoh’s war chariot and a frieze from the Chapel of Sesostris
• 50 EGP – Edfu Temple
• 100 EGP – The Sphinx
• 200 EGP – Seated scribe

To view images of the Egyptian pound banknotes, visit the “Banknotes” section of the product page or the official website of the Central Bank of Egypt.

Typical Prices in Egypt (approx.):

• Bread (0.5 kg) – 14.00 EGP
• Eggs (12 pcs) – 30.00 EGP
• Mineral water (1.5 L) – 4.40 EGP

A Brief History of the Egyptian Pound

The Egyptian pound was introduced in 1834 by royal decree, replacing the piaster as the main monetary unit. At the time, Egypt adopted a bimetallic standard based on the popular Maria Theresa thaler, a widely used trade coin in the region.

Initially, 1 Egyptian pound = 100 piasters, and 1 piaster = 40 smaller units. In 1885, this changed with the introduction of a new unit equal to 1/10 of a piaster, later called the millime in 1914.

Between 1885 and 1914, Egypt operated under the gold standard, fixing the Egyptian pound’s value to 7.4375 grams of pure gold.

The Egyptian Pound on the Global Stage

Egypt remains one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. From ancient pyramids to desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the country offers unforgettable experiences. Knowing a bit about the Egyptian pound can help you better prepare for your trip.

In recent years, the EGP has experienced several devaluations due to economic challenges. The country has also required assistance from international financial institutions.

Exchange Rate History of the Egyptian Pound

• During World War I, the Egyptian pound was pegged to the British pound at the rate of 1 EGP = 1.06 GBP.
• In 1962, the currency was pegged to the US dollar at 1 EGP = 2.3 USD.
• After the dollar’s devaluation in 1973, the rate changed to 1 EGP = 2.55555 USD.
• Up until 2001, Egypt's central bank strictly controlled the exchange rate, but eventually abandoned currency interventions due to economic pressures.
• On 3 November 2016, the official exchange rate was allowed to float, resulting in an immediate 50% drop in value.

To check the current exchange rate, go to the "Currency Charts" section and enter the relevant values.

What Is the Current Exchange Rate for the Egyptian Pound?

Visit the “Currencies” tab or the live exchange rate charts page to see the latest rate of the Egyptian pound (EGP) against the British pound (GBP).

How Much Is the Egyptian Pound Worth?

Use the currency calculator at the top of this page to enter an amount in GBP and instantly see the value in EGP.