Inaugurated in 2016 by the National Bank of Angola (BNA), the museum sits beneath a plaza along the Marginal. It blends architecture and narrative: polished local stone, clean lines and sequential galleries guiding you from barter to contemporary currency.
- Best for: a 45–90 min visit; pair with a Marginal stroll.
- Atmosphere: calm, contemporary, educational.
- Note: photography rules may vary — follow staff guidance.
Pre-money exchange
Zimbo shells, salt, copper, ivory and textiles used as value before coins.
Colonial currencies
Coins and banknotes that circulated in Angola during the colonial period.
The Kwanza (since 1977)
Design, symbolism and reforms of the national currency.
Media & interactives
AV rooms and temporary shows that refresh the storyline.
Subterranean design
Galleries below ground, under the plaza by the BNA. Around 4,800 m² with permanent/temporary rooms and a plaza-level auditorium (~200 seats).
Materials & flow
Clean palette (local stone, metal canopy above) and a chronological flow that makes the story easy to follow.
Where
Av. 4 de Fevereiro, nº 151 (under the plaza by the BNA), Luanda
Hours
Tue–Sat 09:00–15:00 · Closed Sun/Mon & public holidays (confirm on arrival)
Entry
Often free; guided visits/exhibitions may require booking
Contact
+244 222 679 502
Suggested time
45–90 minutes
- Photography: flash/filming may be restricted — follow staff guidance.
- Language: labels mostly in Portuguese; storyline is very visual.
- Pair with: a Marginal walk or nearby viewpoints.
- Pre-money Barter with zimbo shells, salt, copper, ivory and textiles.
- Colonial era Circulation of colonial coins and banknotes.
- 1977 The Kwanza enters circulation.
- 2016 Museum opens beneath the BNA plaza.
Pin: Av. 4 de Fevereiro, next to the BNA HQ (Marginal).