To simplify the conversion arithmetic for the average citizen. Because of the high level of illiteracy in the country, dropping 3 zeroes allowed the Bank to keep the important design features (colour and pictures) of the existing notes and change only the size and security features so that: Each new note will be similar to its existing equivalent note, although the new family of notes will have greater security features than the current ones, which should deter counterfeiting. It must be noted that there will be a new 20 leone denomination as part of this exercise the design characteristics of the new 20 leone note is described in the statutory instrument. Consistent with the BSL Act 2019 Part V, Clause 26, the Sierra Leonean currency shall continue to be the Leone and the symbol shall remain ’Le’ and this will not change after redenomination.
