The Republic of Madagascar is an independent member of the French Community located in the Indian Ocean 250 miles off the southeast coast of Africa opposite Mozambique. The world's fourth-largest island, it is twice the size of Arizona. The country's low-lying coastal area gives way to a central plateau. The once densely wooded interior has largely been cut down. ENJOY!!

Languages: Malagasy, French, English
Religions: Animist, Christian, Muslim
Status: UN Country 1960
Ariary: 17th century currency unit consisting of 720 Variraiventy, a piece of silver equal to the weight of a rice grain. Ariary system is a nondecimal one which is divided into 5 Iraimbilaja

Today's selection is a very colorful 1998 issue of 25,000 Francs (Francs = 1 Ariary). The book value on this note in UNC condition is $25.00. The current exchange rate is:
Thursday, January 22, 2009
25,000 Malagasy Ariary = 13.31842 US Dollar

(Front) Mother with child at ctr. R. Fruit trees in background. (Back) Woman harvesting at ctr. Various fruits Pineapple, guava, Bananas, breadfruit, etc at l.

Take it from the Monkey: Madagascar is so near to the rhythm and beauty of Africa, and yet with so many unique features, it demands the whole of your attention. With it's incredible indigenous flora and fauna most of which can be found nowhere else in the world, and with diverse landscapes with jungles, beaches, mountains and deserts, Madagascar is special! I love it.