| Value | 1 lek |
|---|---|
| Mass | 3 g |
| Diameter | 18.1 mm |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Composition | Copper-covered steel (in 2008 and 2013), bronze (1996) |
| Years of minting | Since 1926 |
| Obverse | |
| Design | "Republic of Albania" minted on top, mint year on bottom, and a pelican in the middle. |
| Reverse | |
| Design | Nominal value and a crown wreath. |
The 1 Lek coin has a value of one lek and is composed of copper-covered steel (2008 and 2013 issues) or bronze (1996), depicting a Dalmatian pelican on its obverse.[1] The 1 Lek coin was firstly minted in 1926 and has been redesigned several times.
History
The coin dates from 1926, when Albania minted its first Lek coins. The obverse side featured a lion, the year 1926, and "Shqipni". During Albania's Italian rule, it featured the fasces[2] and during Communist regime the coin featured the Albanian coat of arms.[3] In 1969, the national bank minted coins to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Albanian Liberation.
Under the democratic government, the coin was redesigned and reminted in 1996 featuring its current design.[4]
Design
The coins are composed of copper-covered steel, with a diameter of 18 mm and a mass of 3 grams. The coins' edges are smooth. The coins have been used from 1997.
Obverse side
The obverse side features the mint year, "Republic of Albania" writing and a pelican in the center.[1]
Reverse side
The reverse side of the coin features its value and a crown wreath.[1]
Usage
While still legal tender, one lek coins do not find much usage currently. Their value, equivalent to less than a penny or 1 euro cent coin, is so small that many citizens will refuse to accept these coins as change from markets, unintentionally creating a system similar to take a penny, leave a penny.
Nicknames
The coin is sometimes referred to as a "pelikan" (pelican) because of its reverse design.