Peru's Currency: The Sol (PEN) — Denominations & Tips

Peru's legal tender is the Sol (PEN), symbol S/. Subunit: 100 céntimos = 1 sol.

Current Banknotes (2021 Series — Polymer & Cotton)

• S/ 10 (green) — José Quiñones (aviator)
• S/ 20 (blue) — Raúl Porras Barrenechea (diplomat)
• S/ 50 (orange) — Abraham Valdelomar (writer)
• S/ 100 (red) — Pedro Paulet (rocket pioneer)
• S/ 200 (purple) — Tilsa Tsuchiya (painter)

Coins

• Céntimos: 5, 10, 20, 50 (aluminum/steel)
• Soles: 1, 2, 5 (bimetallic)

Practical Tips

• Cash is king outside Lima/Cusco tourist zones. Carry small bills (S/10, S/20).
• ATMs: BCP, Interbank, Scotiabank, BBVA — fee S/10–20 + home bank fee. Use Global ATM Alliance partners to save.
• USD accepted at upscale hotels/tours—but poor exchange rate. Pay in soles.
• Counterfeits: Check polymer window, watermark, color-shifting ink, raised print.
• Exchange: Casas de cambio (Av. Larco, Miraflores) beat banks/airports. No black market.

The sol replaced the inti (1985–1991) and the first sol (1863–1985). "Nuevo sol" (1991–2015) dropped "nuevo" in 2015.