Which currency is named after kina shells traditionally used in Papua New Guinea?

The currency named after kina shells traditionally used in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean kina.

The kina became Papua New Guinea’s currency on 19 April 1975, replacing the Australian dollar before the country became independent later that year. Its name comes from kina shells, which were historically used as valuables and in ceremonial exchange in parts of the region.

The kina is divided into 100 toea. Toea is also a traditional term associated with shell valuables, so both the main unit and its subdivision reflect local cultural history rather than a European monetary naming tradition.

The currency’s ISO 4217 code is PGK. Papua New Guinea’s banknotes and coins combine national symbols with imagery connected to the country’s diverse cultures, wildlife, and natural resources.