Euro Banknotes are the tangible representation of the Eurozone’s single currency, used daily by millions across Europe and beyond. Currently, two distinct series of euro banknotes are in circulation, each with its own unique design and security features. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these banknotes, detailing their denominations, characteristics, and the ongoing evolution of euro banknote design.
The Two Series of Euro Banknotes
Since the introduction of the euro, there have been two series of banknotes issued by the European Central Bank (ECB). The first series, launched in 2002, was the original set of euro banknotes. Over time, advancements in banknote technology and the need for enhanced security led to the development of the Europa series, the second and current series being introduced gradually starting in 2013.
Both series are legal tender throughout the Eurozone, meaning they can be used for all payments. Let’s explore each series in detail, starting with the more recent Europa series.
The “Europa” Series: Modern and Secure Euro Banknotes
The Europa series banknotes are named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, whose portrait is featured in the hologram and watermark, adding an extra layer of security and distinctiveness. This series currently includes six denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200. The €500 banknote was not included in the Europa series and is no longer issued, although first series €500 notes remain legal tender.
Each denomination in the Europa series has a unique color, size, and architectural style represented on the banknote. Let’s examine each one:
€5 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The €5 euro banknote is grey in color and measures 120 x 62 mm. Its design represents the Classical architectural period.
€10 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The €10 euro banknote is red, slightly larger at 127 x 67 mm, and showcases the Romanesque architectural period.
€20 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Colored blue and measuring 133 x 72 mm, the €20 euro banknote depicts the Gothic architectural period.
€50 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The orange €50 euro banknote is 140 x 77 mm and represents the Renaissance architectural period.
€100 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Green in color and sized at 147 x 77 mm, the €100 euro banknote illustrates the Baroque and Rococo architectural styles.
€200 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The yellow €200 euro banknote is the largest in the Europa series at 153 x 77 mm, featuring Iron and glass architecture.
The First Series: The Original Euro Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes, while gradually being replaced by the Europa series, remains legal tender. This series included all seven denominations, including the €500 banknote. Similar to the Europa series, each denomination has a distinct color, size, and architectural theme.
€5 Euro Banknote – First Series
The first series €5 euro banknote is also grey and the same size as the Europa series €5 note (120 x 62 mm), representing the Classical period.
€10 Euro Banknote – First Series
Red and 127 x 67 mm, the first series €10 euro banknote also showcases the Romanesque style.
€20 Euro Banknote – First Series
The blue first series €20 euro banknote, sized at 133 x 72 mm, also represents the Gothic period.
€50 Euro Banknote – First Series
Orange and 140 x 77 mm, the first series €50 euro banknote, like its Europa series counterpart, embodies the Renaissance style.
€100 Euro Banknote – First Series
The green first series €100 euro banknote, measuring 147 x 82 mm, also features the Baroque and Rococo periods.
€200 Euro Banknote – First Series
Yellow and 153 x 82 mm, the first series €200 euro banknote also represents Iron and glass architecture.
€500 Euro Banknote – First Series
The purple €500 euro banknote, the largest in the first series at 160 x 82 mm, represents Modern 20th-century architecture. Although production of the €500 note ceased in 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
It’s important to reiterate that all banknotes from both series remain legal tender. Even as the Europa series becomes more prevalent, you may still encounter first series banknotes in circulation. The decision to discontinue the €500 issuance was primarily due to concerns about its use in illicit activities, but existing notes retain their value.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of euro banknotes, engaging European citizens in the design process. “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” have been selected as potential themes for these future banknotes, reflecting public preferences gathered in 2023. The ECB is expected to finalize the designs and announce production and issuance timelines in 2026, marking the next chapter in the evolution of euro banknotes.
For more detailed information, you can visit the ECB’s official website dedicated to future banknotes: ECB: Future banknotes.
Understanding the different series and denominations of euro banknotes not only enhances your familiarity with this currency but also provides insight into the ongoing efforts to maintain its security and relevance in a changing world.
