The BCRA launched a plan to supply ARS1 and ARS2 coins directly to large companies and chambers of commerce, thus improving the supply of change for low-value transactions.
In this way, the BCRA will supply containers with 100,000 coins of ARS1 or ARS2, which interested companies will be able to access by making a transfer of the relevant amount. Each container has 200 bags of 500 coins to facilitate subsequent separation into smaller quantities.
Companies and associations interested in this service can contact operaciones.monedas@bcra.gob.ar for further information.
The BCRA holds a large number of these coins, the demand for which has fallen sharply in recent years, particularly since the SUBE card began to be used in metropolitan transport.
While the development of electronic means of payment promoted by the BCRA aims to reduce the use of cash, this direct distribution mechanism—without the intervention of a commercial bank—will streamline the use of coins in the commercial circuits where they are needed.
In addition to this initiative, the monetary authority will continue to distribute coins through the usual channels, i.e., financial institutions.
