Euro banknotes are a tangible symbol of European unity, used daily by millions across the Eurozone. Currently, two series of euro banknotes are in circulation, each with distinct designs and security features. This guide will walk you through the details of both the first and Europa series of euro banknotes, providing essential information about these important pieces of currency.
The Two Series of Euro Banknotes
Since the introduction of the euro, there have been two distinct series of banknotes issued. The first series, launched in 2002, paved the way for a unified currency. Later, the Europa series was introduced with enhanced security features and a slightly refreshed design. It’s important to understand both series as banknotes from the first series remain legal tender.
Europa Series Banknotes: Modern and Secure
The Europa series is the second and current series of euro banknotes. It is named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, whose portrait is featured in the watermark and hologram of each note. This series includes six denominations, ranging from €5 to €200. Notably, the €500 banknote is not included in the Europa series and is no longer issued, although first series €500 notes remain legal tender.
5 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 banknote, easily recognizable by its grey color, represents the Classical architectural period. Its design features gateways and windows, symbolizing the European spirit of openness and cooperation.
10 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red €10 banknote showcases the Romanesque architectural style. Like all euro banknotes, it depicts bridges and arches, further emphasizing connection and communication across Europe.
20 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote embodies the Gothic period of architecture. Its vibrant color and intricate design make it one of the most commonly used denominations.
50 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote represents the Renaissance period. Its higher value makes it suitable for larger transactions and it is widely circulated.
100 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Green
- Size: 147 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote showcases Baroque and Rococo architecture. Its design reflects the artistic flair of these periods and it’s used for significant purchases.
200 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 banknote represents the Iron and Glass architecture period. As a high-value note, it’s less commonly seen in everyday transactions but remains a valid form of payment.
First Series Banknotes: The Original Euro Design
The first series of euro banknotes was the initial set introduced when the euro currency was launched. While gradually being replaced by the Europa series, these banknotes are still legal tender and widely accepted. The first series included all seven denominations, including the €500 banknote.
5 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
Similar to the Europa series, the first series €5 banknote is grey and represents the Classical architectural period, maintaining consistency in the theme across series.
10 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red color and Romanesque theme are also consistent between the first and Europa series for the €10 banknote, aiding in easy recognition.
20 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote in the first series also features the Gothic architectural style, ensuring continuity in the visual representation of value.
50 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
Continuing the pattern, the orange €50 banknote and the Renaissance theme are present in both banknote series.
100 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Green
- Size: 147 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote with Baroque and Rococo architectural elements is another consistent design feature across both series.
200 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 banknote, representing Iron and Glass architecture, maintains the color and theme from the first series to the Europa series.
500 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Purple
- Size: 160 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Modern 20th century architecture
The purple €500 banknote, unique to the first series and no longer issued, represents Modern 20th-century architecture. Despite no longer being printed, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
While the Europa series is the latest and most current, all banknotes from the first series remain legal tender throughout the Eurozone. This means they can still be used for payments and as a store of value. Even the €500 banknote from the first series, though production ceased in 2019, continues to be legal tender.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively planning the design of a new series of banknotes. The European Central Bank (ECB) has involved European citizens in the theme selection process. “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” have been shortlisted as potential themes for future designs. A final decision on the designs and the timeline for production and issuance is expected in 2026. This future series aims to further enhance security features and reflect the identity of Europe.
For more detailed information, you can visit the ECB website for updates on future banknotes and other aspects of the euro currency. ECB: Future banknotes
Understanding the features and series of euro banknotes helps users confidently handle and recognize these essential instruments of the Eurozone economy.
