Pronunciation: [mˈɑːkə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "markka" may cause confusion for English speakers due to the use of the double letter "kk". However, in the Finnish language, "kk" is pronounced with a geminated consonant, meaning it is pronounced for longer than a single consonant. The correct IPA phonetic transcription for "markka" is /ˈmærkːɑ/. This word refers to the former currency of Finland before the adoption of the euro.
The markka was the official currency of Finland from 1860 to 2002. Its name is derived from the word "mark," which means "unit of currency" in many Germanic languages. The markka was divided into 100 penniä, and banknotes and coins were issued in various denominations.
Initially, the markka was introduced as a silver currency at a fixed exchange rate compared to the Russian ruble. However, in 1865, Finland joined the Scandinavian Monetary Union and adopted the gold standard. The markka became equivalently pegged to the Swedish krona and Norwegian krone.
Throughout its history, the markka experienced fluctuations due to economic conditions, wars, and political changes. Following World War II, Finland undertook a monetary reform, introducing the "new markka" in 1963, with the aim of reducing inflation. The new markka was equal to 100 old markkaa.
In 1999, Finland joined the European Union, and the markka became a part of the Exchange Rate Mechanism II. Finally, in 2002, Finland adopted the euro as its official currency, and the markka was discontinued.
Today, the markka remains a symbol of Finland's economic history and holds nostalgic value for many. It serves as a reminder of Finland's financial independence and its transition to the common currency used by European Union member countries.
The word markka has its origins in the Finnish language. It was the official currency of Finland from 1860 until it was replaced by the euro in 2002. The etymology of markka is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from the Old High German word marha, which means coin or unit of currency. Over time, as it entered the Finnish language, it likely went through modifications and adaptations to become markka.
