However the first official currency that was distributed everywhere bearing the 'Real'name was originally printed in the year 1654 by the Dutch when they occupied the Northeastern part of Brazil. Real became the official currency of Brazil in 1690 and since then its official status remained intact till 1942. Only in 1942, the currency named Cruzeiro replaced real. The currency rate was 1000 reis = 1 cruzeiro. 

In the 1980s and 1990s, Brazil went through a period of high inflation and hence this South American nation had to change its currency numerous times. Until 1986, the Brazilians dealt with Cruzeiros . In that year three zeros were removed and the currency was changed to Cruzado .

After a couple of years another three zeros were removed and the 'new cruzados'-(Cruzados Novos) were introduced to the people of Brazil. In 1990, the Cruzeiros once again were in vogue after replacing Cruzados Novos . Finally another three zeros were reduced and the currency came to be known as Cruzeiros Reais. 

In 1994, with the implementation of the new financial plan, the new currency Real was launched. Thus after a long time the currency of Brazil was stabilized. 

Brazil Currency(Real) consists of Bills ranging from- R$1, R$2, R$5, R$10, R$20, R$50 and R$100. Coins are also available in varied colors and sizes with value ranging from 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents and also 1 Real. Previously the Bills had images of Historical characters, but at present the images of Brazilian animals are illustrated on the bills. The female character at one side of the bill represents Brazil as a Republic. 

Brazil doesn't allow tourists or travelers to use foreign currency bills and traveler checks are curtailed. Travelers have to exchange the currency before payment of bills.