A Guide to Star Wars Currencies and Their Denominations

Although the galaxy far, far away references currencies like “credits,” they often leave the specifics to the imagination. Let’s explore some of the well-known currencies in the Star Wars universe.

Credits: The Galactic Standard Currency

In the Star Wars universe, credits are the primary form of currency. Almost every corner of the galaxy—from the sprawling metropolises of Coruscant to the marketplaces of Lothal—uses credits as a medium of exchange. Characters casually throw around the word “credits,” but we don’t often get a clear picture of their denominations. In the movies, credits usually function as a universal standard, though sometimes on Tatooine they need something more real.

Different Types of Credits

In the expansive Star Wars canon, there are a few different types of credits used at various points in the galaxy’s timeline:

1. Galactic Credit Standard: The primary currencies of the Galactic Republic and later the Galactic Empire. It took several different forms throughout the Republic and transformation into the Empire. It was the most widely accepted currency across the galaxy, backed by the Banking Clan. Though the films don’t go into details about its denominations, this currency played a vital role in the Republic’s economy.
2. Imperial Credits: Used during the reign of the Empire, these credits were essentially the same as the Republic’s, with the Empire taking over the existing banking systems. While mentions of Imperial credits appear frequently in the lore, the specifics of their physical denominations remain ambiguous.
3. New Republic Credits: After the fall of the Empire, the New Republic established its own currency system. Fortunately, this is one area where we get a bit more detail on the credit denominations.

New Republic Credits: Breaking Down the Denominations

The New Republic made strides to establish a currency that was both recognizable and practical. Unlike the credits of the Galactic Republic and the Empire, the New Republic credits have clear denominations, which are indicated on individual coins. Here’s a closer look at what we know:

1. Bronze Credit – 50 Credits: This small, bronze-colored coin is the lowest denomination we see. It’s worth 50 credits and is likely the go-to coin for smaller transactions like food and supplies.
2. Silver Tear-Shaped Credit – 100 Credits: This coin, shaped like a tear, has a sleek silver appearance. Valued at 100 credits, it’s practical for medium-sized purchases, perhaps like fuel for a landspeeder or market goods.
3. Silver Triangular-Shaped Credit – 250 Credits: Another silver coin, but this time triangular in shape, valued at 250 credits. This one is likely used for larger expenses—enough to buy more substantial equipment or pay for mercenary services.
4. Gold Credit – 500 Credits: The most valuable coin in the New Republic’s currency set, this gold coin carries a worth of 500 credits. These would be used for high-end purchases, such as luxury goods or maybe even passage on a starship.

Other Known Local Currencies in the Star Wars Galaxy

Aside from the universally accepted credits, several planets and regions have their own forms of currency. While not as widely recognized as credits, these currencies add a layer of complexity to the galactic economy:

• Wupiupi, Truguts, Pegats: Used on Tatooine, they were metal coins, often used in the Outer Rim. This currency gained brief mention during Anakin Skywalker’s time as a slave.
• Calamari Flan: Introduced in The Mandalorian, this flat, rounded currency from Mon Cala is unlike any other currencies we’ve seen. Unlike credits, Calamari flan has a jelly-like consistency and can be used for trading in the Outer Rim Territories.
• Beskar: More than just currency, Beskar is a rare and valuable metal that holds cultural significance for the Mandalorians. Used primarily for forging armor, it also serves as a form of trade. The value of Beskar lies in its durability and its ability to withstand blaster fire and lightsaber strikes, making it highly coveted across the galaxy.
• Ferrix Credits: On the industrial world of Ferrix, their own localized credits circulate among the populace. Although not as widely accepted as Galactic credits, Ferrix credits are vital for trade and commerce within their specific planetary economy.
• Batuuan Spira: The local currency of Black Spire Outpost on Batuu (Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge). They feature the letters BSO for the Outpost as well as three of the spires.

Casino and Betting Chips

• Sabacc Chips: Used primarily in the high-stakes card game of Sabacc, these chips serve as both currency within the game and as a form of barter in some parts of the galaxy. Sabacc chips come in various denominations and materials, seen in the Sabacc pot showdown of Han and Lando.
• Halcyon Chips: A form of currency used aboard the luxury starcruiser Halcyon. Passengers on this elite vessel use Halcyon chips while playing Coruscant Shift in the Sublight Lounge, offering an experience of exclusivity and luxury while traveling through the galaxy.
• Crystalline Vertex Coins: These coins, crafted from a unique red-crystalline material, inside of a letal ring are seen at the sabacc table where Han wins the Millenium Falcon.
• Canto Bight Coins: The glitzy casinos of Canto Bight use their own set of chips. These polished and stylish coins reflect the luxurious lifestyle of the gamblers and socialites on this affluent world. Though they are primarily used for betting in Canto Bight’s grand casinos, they also serve as souvenirs, status symbols, and weapons?

The Mystery of Denominations

One of the intriguing aspects of Star Wars is that while credits are a central part of galactic life, we rarely see clear breakdowns of their value or denomination in the movies and shows. Aside from the New Republic credits, most credits are presented in a rather nebulous manner. Characters might mention costs—such as Han Solo’s 10,000-credit reward for transporting Luke and Obi-Wan—but we never get a close look at the currency’s physical form or how it’s broken down.

Conclusion

Star Wars paints an enticing picture of a vast, interconnected galaxy, complete with its own economic systems. While credits are the primary currency, the exact denominations often remain a mystery, adding to the allure of the universe. However, with the New Republic’s coins, we catch a rare glimpse of how structured and formalized the galaxy’s currency can be.

So, the next time you hear a character talk about credits, remember there’s an entire galactic economy behind those numbers—even if most of it remains shrouded in mystery!