The Somalian monetary unit is the official currency of Somalia. Its official name is the Somali shilling, but it is also commonly referred to as the Somalian shilling or simply as the shilling. Other synonyms for the Somalian monetary unit include the Somali currency, the Somali coin, and the Somali banknote. Some people also refer to it as the Somali dollar because of its similar symbol and value to the United States dollar. While Somalia has struggled with political instability and economic hardship, the Somalian monetary unit remains the main medium of exchange in the country.