Top 10 Most Valuable Currencies in the World: 2026 Rankings

When discussions turn to powerful currencies, the US dollar often dominates the conversation. As the world’s most traded currency and the primary reserve holding for central banks, its influence is undeniable. However, trading volume tells only part of the story. When currency strength is measured by exchange rates, meaning how many US dollars one unit of a foreign currency can buy, the global rankings look very different.

Among roughly 180 recognised fiat currencies worldwide, the US dollar barely makes the top ten when ranked purely by exchange rate value. This highlights a critical distinction: the most traded currency is not necessarily the most valuable on a unit-for-unit basis. The exchange rates used in this ranking, as at 2 February 2026, are sourced from Forbes currency converter, which is based on data from Open Exchange.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Countries with the Highest Average IQ Scores in the World: 2026 Rankings

The rankings below measure currency strength based on exchange rates as of 2 February 2026, showing how much each currency unit is worth in US dollars. The data, sourced from Open Exchange via our currency converter, illustrates how exchange rate value differs from broader economic influence.

The Kuwaiti dinar tops the global rankings. One dinar buys $3.25, while one US dollar equals just 0.30 dinars. Kuwait’s oil-driven economy and substantial foreign reserves underpin the dinar’s exceptional strength.

ALSO READ: Top 10 African Countries with the Lowest Fuel Prices: 2026 Rankings

Second on the list, the Bahraini dinar trades at $2.65 per unit, with $1 buying 0.37 BHD. Bahrain has one of the most diversified economies in the Gulf, with non-oil sectors accounting for 85.9% of real GDP in 2024. The dinar has been pegged to the US dollar since its introduction in 1965.

Introduced in the 1970s, the Omani rial trades at $2.60 per unit, with $1 equivalent to 0.38 OMR. Oman’s oil and gas exports remain a key factor supporting the currency’s high valuation.

ALSO READ: 5 Potential NDC Presidential Candidates Who Can Beat Dr Bawumia in 2028

The Jordanian dinar, introduced in the 1950s, exchanges at $1.41, with one dollar buying 0.70 JOD. Despite limited natural resources and ongoing economic pressures, the dinar has remained relatively strong.

Dating back to the 15th century, the British pound is one of the world’s oldest currencies still in use. One pound currently exchanges for $1.37, with $1 worth £0.72.

ALSO READ: Your Weekly Pulse: Top 5 News Stories in Ghana You May Have Missed (2 to 6 February)

The Gibraltar pound is pegged one-for-one with the British pound. Issued since the 1920s, it mirrors sterling’s value due to Gibraltar’s status as a British overseas territory.

Introduced in 1850, the Swiss franc is widely regarded as a safe-haven currency. One franc buys $1.28, while $1 equals 0.77 CHF, reflecting Switzerland’s long-standing political and economic stability.

Launched in the 1970s, the Cayman Islands dollar is pegged to the US dollar and trades at $1.19 per unit. One US dollar equals 0.83 KYD.

ALSO READ: Ghana, Zambia sign historic visa waiver agreement during President Mahama’s state visit

The euro entered circulation in 2002 and is used by 20 of the European Union’s 27 member states. Currently, one euro purchases $1.18, making $1 worth €0.84.

The US dollar ranks tenth by exchange rate value, with most global currencies worth less than one dollar per unit. Created in the 18th century, the dollar is legal tender in the United States and several other countries.

Despite its lower ranking by exchange rate, the dollar remains dominant globally. It is the world’s most traded currency, the leading reserve asset for central banks, and the standard pricing currency for commodities such as oil, gold, and copper.

ALSO READ: Why Is the UN Going “Broke”? Understanding the Crisis and Its Impact on Africa

These rankings underline the difference between currency value and economic influence. High exchange rates often reflect oil wealth, currency pegs, or limited money supply rather than global economic dominance.

The US dollar illustrates this clearly. While it ranks tenth by exchange rate, its strength lies in widespread acceptance, deep financial markets, and the size of the US economy. For travellers, investors, and businesses, understanding this distinction is essential.

ALSO READ: Pres. Mahama is 5th most influential figure in global development – Devex Power 50 List

The prominence of Middle Eastern currencies highlights the role of natural resource wealth, while Bahrain’s diversified economy shows that long-term currency stability extends beyond oil alone.