Euro banknotes are a tangible representation of European unity, used daily by millions across the Eurozone. Understanding the different Euro Note Denominations is essential for anyone living in, traveling to, or conducting business within this economic area. This guide provides a detailed overview of the various euro banknote denominations currently in circulation, exploring their designs, features, and history.
Exploring the Two Series of Euro Banknotes
Currently, two distinct series of euro banknotes are in circulation: the first series, introduced in 2002, and the Europa series, which began its rollout in 2013. Both series are legal tender, meaning they are valid for payments throughout the Eurozone. The first series initially comprised seven denominations, ranging from €5 to €500. The Europa series, designed with enhanced security features and a refreshed look, consists of six denominations, omitting the €500 banknote.
The “Europa” Series: Modern and Secure Euro Notes
The Europa series is named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, whose portrait is featured in the watermark and hologram of each banknote. This series incorporates advanced security features to combat counterfeiting, making them more secure than the first series. Let’s delve into each denomination of the Europa series:
€5 Euro Note “Europa” Series
- Colour: Grey
- Actual Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 banknote, grey in colour, showcases classical architecture, representing the period up to the 2nd century AD. Its compact size makes it the smallest denomination in the Europa series.
€10 Euro Note “Europa” Series
- Colour: Red
- Actual Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red €10 banknote features Romanesque architecture, characteristic of the 11th and 12th centuries. It is slightly larger than the €5 note.
€20 Euro Note “Europa” Series
- Colour: Blue
- Actual Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote displays Gothic architecture, prevalent between the 13th and 14th centuries. This denomination is frequently used in everyday transactions.
€50 Euro Note “Europa” Series
- Colour: Orange
- Actual Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote showcases Renaissance architecture, representing the 15th and 16th centuries. It is one of the most widely circulated euro note denominations.
€100 Euro Note “Europa” Series
- Colour: Green
- Actual Size: 147 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote features Baroque and Rococo architecture, styles popular in the 17th and 18th centuries.
€200 Euro Note “Europa” Series
- Colour: Yellow
- Actual Size: 153 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 banknote displays Iron and Glass architecture, representing the 19th century. It is the largest denomination currently issued in the Europa series.
The First Series: Classic Euro Banknotes Still in Use
Although gradually being replaced by the Europa series, the first series of euro banknotes remains legal tender. These banknotes are still widely recognized and accepted across the Eurozone. Here’s a look at the denominations in the first series:
€5 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Grey
- Actual Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
Similar in colour and size to its Europa series counterpart, the first series €5 note also features classical architecture.
€10 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Red
- Actual Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The first series €10 note, like the Europa series, is red and depicts Romanesque architecture.
€20 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Blue
- Actual Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 note in the first series also carries the Gothic architectural theme.
€50 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Orange
- Actual Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 note in the first series represents the Renaissance period.
€100 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Green
- Actual Size: 147 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 note of the first series also features Baroque and Rococo architectural styles.
€200 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Yellow
- Actual Size: 153 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 note from the first series depicts 19th-century Iron and Glass architecture.
€500 Euro Note First Series
- Colour: Purple
- Actual Size: 160 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Modern 20th century architecture
The purple €500 banknote, the highest denomination in the first series, showcases modern 20th-century architecture. It’s important to note that while the €500 note from the first series remains legal tender, it has not been issued since 2019.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
All banknotes from both the first and Europa series are legal tender throughout the Eurozone. This means they can be used for all transactions and retain their value. Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of banknotes, with “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” being considered as potential themes. The final designs for these future euro banknotes are expected to be decided in 2026, marking the next evolution in euro note denominations.
Understanding the different euro note denominations, their designs, and security features is crucial for anyone interacting with the euro currency. Both the first and Europa series represent the rich cultural heritage of Europe while facilitating everyday transactions across the Eurozone.
