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Tuvalu

Tuvalu is a nation situated in the west-central Pacific Ocean. Consisting of nine coral islands arranged in a chain spanning from northwest to southeast, it boasts a captivating landscape. The village of Vaiaku, situated on Fongafale islet within the Funafuti Atoll, serves as the de facto capital, housing numerous governmental establishments. Initially part of the British Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony along with what is now Kiribati (previously the Gilbert Islands), Tuvalu attained independence in 1978.

Tuvaluans rely on subsistence farming and remittances from relatives working abroad. The country exports a small amount of copra and earns modestly from stamp sales and foreign fishing fleet fees, but heavily relies on assistance from other countries. The majority of Tuvalu’s food, manufactured products, and fuel are imported from Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. Retail is managed by community-based cooperative societies. Tuvalu utilizes Australian currency and has its own coinage. A single bank exists, operating as a joint government-commercial venture.

The Tuvaluan dollar is the currency of Tuvalu. While banknotes are not issued, Tuvalu has been minting coins since 1976. The Tuvaluan dollar is pegged at the same rate with the Australian dollar, which is also accepted in Tuvalu. Previously, Tuvalu used currencies such as the British pound and the US dollar during different periods. 

In 1976, alongside Tuvalu's independence, a series of coins was introduced, featuring marine themes and representing the nine islands and atolls of Tuvalu. These coins were designed by John Donald and ranged from 1 cent to 1 dollar. Additionally, Tuvalu issued silver and gold-proof bullion coins, which hold legal tender status. Since independence, the official currency has been the Australian dollar.

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