British Pound (GBP)
The pound sterling is the oldest currency still in use and the fourth most traded. The Bank of England sets policy for the United Kingdom, and the currency is closely tied to the country's large financial services sector.
The latest available mid-market reference is 1 GBP = 1.3290 USD. The table below shows the same rate against the other major currencies.
Key facts
Structural details reviewed . Regimes and issuing arrangements can change.
The role of the British Pound
Sterling is a major reserve currency and the currency of one of the world's largest financial centres. London handles the largest share of global foreign exchange trading, so the pound is liquid even in quiet markets.
A short history
The pound dates back to the silver penny of the Anglo-Saxon period and was decimalised in 1971. It left the European Exchange Rate Mechanism in 1992 after a sharp fall against the mark.
What moves the British Pound
Bank of England decisions, UK inflation and wage growth, and the terms of the UK's trade relationship with the European Union. Sterling often reacts sharply to fiscal news because the UK runs a current account deficit.
Live GBP exchange rate
| Currency | 1 GBP equals |
|---|---|
| US Dollar (USD) | 1.3290 |
| Euro (EUR) | 1.1960 |
| Japanese Yen (JPY) | 212.00 |
| Chinese Yuan (CNY) | 8.8857 |
| Indian Rupee (INR) | 124.73 |
| Canadian Dollar (CAD) | 1.8925 |
| Australian Dollar (AUD) | 1.9395 |
| Swiss Franc (CHF) | 1.1055 |
Mid-market rate updated . Banks and transfer providers add a margin. About our rates.
GBP conversion pages
Guides for British Pound
Other currency profiles
British Pound questions
What is the British Pound?
British Pound (GBP) is used in the following countries and territories: United Kingdom, Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man and several overseas territories. Central bank: Bank of England. Exchange rate regime: free float.
Which countries use the British Pound?
The British Pound is used in the following countries and territories: United Kingdom, Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man and several overseas territories.
What affects the British Pound exchange rate?
Bank of England decisions, UK inflation and wage growth, and the terms of the UK's trade relationship with the European Union. Sterling often reacts sharply to fiscal news because the UK runs a current account deficit.