The Maldivian laari has existed in fractional form since the archipelago's sultanate era, but the Maldives Monetary Authority — established in 1981 to replace the Maldives Monetary Board — standardized the modern aluminium series to keep low-denomination coins economically viable to produce. At 0.85 g, the aluminium composition is a practical necessity; a comparable cupro-nickel piece would cost more to strike than its face value.
The Maldivian laari has existed in fractional form since the archipelago's sultanate era, but the Maldives Monetary Authority — established in 1981 to replace the Maldives Monetary Board — standardized the modern aluminium series to keep low-denomination coins economically viable to produce. At 0.85 g, the aluminium composition is a practical necessity; a comparable cupro-nickel piece would cost more to strike than its face value.