10 Lei

Moldova introduced bimetallic circulating coinage relatively late compared to its regional neighbors, a reflection of the country's prolonged monetary instability following the introduction of the leu in 1993. The 10 lei denomination in this bimetallic format was part of a broader modernization of the circulating coin series intended to reduce reliance on low-value paper notes that had worn out of practical use.

Brass-plated steel over a nickel-plated steel ring — rather than solid alloy construction — keeps production costs low, a pragmatic choice for a currency still navigating the pressures of a small open economy.