Lira

The lira is a historical currency, primarily associated with Italy before the introduction of the Euro in 1999, and also used in other countries like Turkey. It was typically subdivided into 100 smaller units. The value of a lira fluctuated based on economic factors and its relationship with other currencies. Today, the lira is primarily of historical interest, and its value is expressed by currency codes. The value was replaced by the Euro, however, the Turkish lira remains in use.

Lira meaning with examples

• Before the Euro's adoption, Italians diligently saved and spent their liras. The price of a coffee could range from a few hundred liras to thousands. Tourists exchanged their currencies for liras to experience the local economy. Museums, restaurants, and shops all transacted in liras.
• My grandfather still has some old Italian banknotes, which he keeps as a reminder of the lira era, even though it's no longer legal tender. He recalls the inflation in liras and always compares the price of things back then to current prices, especially those in euros.
• In Turkey, a large sign displayed the currency exchange rate to the US dollar. It showed how many Turkish liras you got for each US dollar you gave. This example illustrates its usage in Turkey, a contrasting country.
• Historical novels and films set in Italy before 1999 often reference the lira, highlighting the impact of economics on everyday life for many generations and social structures across the country.