levikulu

Levikulu is a fictional currency used in the Taruna archipelago within world-building and speculative fiction. It serves as the standard unit of account and medium of exchange in Tarunan economies. The levikulu is subdivided into 100 sublevikulu. Coins are minted in copper and silver, and banknotes are issued by the Taruna Monetary Authority. Common denominations include coins of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 100 sublevikulu and notes of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 levikulu. In everyday pricing, levikulu is often quoted with sublevikulu for small amounts, though rounding rules vary by island.

Etymology: The name levikulu derives from Tarunan language elements levi, meaning “bright,” and kulu, meaning “money” or “coin.” The term first appears in early Tarunan literature and has remained the standard designation for the currency.

History: The levikulu was introduced to replace barter during the development of a centralized Tarunan economy in the late 18th century. Standard minting and banking practices were consolidated in the 19th century, with the central authority setting exchange rates and managing reserves. In the 21st century, a digital ledger system and digital tokens known as Leviku Digital (LVD) were introduced, while physical coins and notes continue to circulate for everyday transactions.

Usage and symbolism: The currency appears in Tarunan folklore and national symbols. Prices, salaries, and government decrees are denominated in levikulu, and the currency is used in education to teach basic economics and accounting.