Euro Banknotes are more than just currency; they are a tangible symbol of European integration and unity. Currently, two distinct series of euro banknotes are in circulation, each with its own unique designs and security features. Understanding these banknotes is essential for anyone living in or traveling to the Eurozone.
The first series of euro banknotes, introduced in 2002, initially comprised seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. These banknotes are still legal tender and widely accepted.
The second and current series, known as the Europa series, began its rollout in 2013. This series includes six denominations, omitting the €500 banknote. The Europa series incorporates enhanced security features and a refreshed design, ensuring the banknotes remain secure and relevant in a modern context.
“Europa” Series Euro Banknotes
The Europa series banknotes are gradually replacing the first series. They feature the image of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, lending the series its name and a unifying European element. Each denomination has a distinct color and size, and depicts architectural styles from different periods of European history.
5 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Color: Grey
Actual Size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 banknote, grey in color, showcases Classical architecture. This style, prominent in ancient Greece and Rome, represents the foundations of European civilization and culture.
10 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Color: Red
Actual Size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red €10 banknote features Romanesque architecture. This medieval style, characterized by its rounded arches and massive forms, is a key part of Europe’s architectural heritage.
20 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Color: Blue
Actual Size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote displays Gothic architecture. Known for its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, the Gothic style represents a significant period in European art and building.
50 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Color: Orange
Actual Size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote showcases Renaissance architecture. This style, marking a rebirth of classical ideals, is characterized by balance, proportion, and harmony, reflecting a pivotal era in European history.
100 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Color: Green
Actual Size: 147 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote represents Baroque and Rococo architecture. These elaborate and ornamental styles of the 17th and 18th centuries are associated with dynamism, drama, and grandeur.
200 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Color: Yellow
Actual Size: 153 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 banknote depicts Iron and Glass architecture. This 19th-century style, characterized by innovative use of industrial materials, symbolizes modernity and engineering progress in Europe.
First Series Euro Banknotes
The first series euro banknotes, while being phased out, remain legal tender throughout the Eurozone. They feature abstract architectural designs representing different European ages.
5 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Grey
Actual 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.
10 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Red
Actual Size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period: Romanesque
The first series €10 banknote, also red, is associated with the Romanesque period, mirroring the theme of its Europa series counterpart.
20 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Blue
Actual Size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period: Gothic
Continuing the pattern, the blue €20 banknote of the first series also represents Gothic architecture.
50 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Orange
Actual Size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote in the first series maintains the Renaissance theme.
100 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Green
Actual Size: 147 x 82 mm
Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote of the first series aligns with the Baroque and Rococo architectural period.
200 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Yellow
Actual Size: 153 x 82 mm
Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 banknote in the first series, like the Europa series, represents Iron and Glass architecture.
500 Euro Banknote – First Series
Color: Purple
Actual Size: 160 x 82 mm
Architectural Period: Modern 20th Century Architecture
The purple €500 banknote, exclusive to the first series, represents Modern 20th-century architecture. Although issuance ceased in 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and Future of Euro Banknotes
Despite the introduction of the Europa series and the cessation of the €500 banknote issuance, all banknotes from both series remain legal tender. This means they can be used for payments and savings. The first series banknotes are being gradually withdrawn from circulation, but this is a slow process, and they will continue to be accepted for the foreseeable future.
The Eurosystem is actively planning the future of euro banknotes. Citizens are playing a crucial role in shaping the design of the next series. Themes such as “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” have been shortlisted as potential directions for the new banknotes, reflecting a move towards themes that resonate with the public and celebrate European identity and natural heritage. The final decision on themes and designs is expected in 2026, paving the way for a new chapter in the evolution of euro banknotes.
