Cowries to shillings to the Dalasi is the best way to summarize the development of Gambia’s currency. Adopted in 1971, the Dalasi is the monetary unit of The Gambia, with 100 bututs making one dalasi.  Dalasi notes exist denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 Dalasis. Coins exist in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 Bututs or one Dalasi increments. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants and it is possible to withdraw money through the ATM services provided by the Standard Chartered Bank .

There are many foreign exchange bureaus in larger towns and the Central Bank regularly informs the public through the press the Forex rates.Also, it is important to know that from 300,000 dalasis and above, money is only allowed through transfer of funds to local accounts.