Euro banknotes are the tangible representation of the Euro currency, used by millions across the Eurozone. Currently, two series of euro banknotes are in circulation, each with distinct designs and security features. This guide provides a detailed look at both series of euro bills, helping you to identify and understand these essential pieces of European 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, included seven denominations ranging from €5 to €500. The second and current series, known as the Europa series, began circulation in 2013 and consists of six denominations, excluding the €500 banknote.
Europa Series: Modern and Secure Euro Bills
The Europa series is the latest iteration of euro banknotes, designed with enhanced security features and a refreshed visual appeal. Each denomination in the Europa series showcases a different architectural period in European history, represented through stylized bridges and arches. The banknotes also feature “Europa,” a figure from Greek mythology, giving the series its name and adding an extra layer of security through her portrait watermark and hologram.
5 Euro Bill: Classical Architecture
Color: Grey
Size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 euro bill is grey in color and represents the Classical architectural period. It is the smallest denomination in terms of value and size within the Europa series.
10 Euro Bill: Romanesque Architecture
Color: Red
Size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red €10 euro bill embodies the Romanesque architectural style. Slightly larger than the €5, it continues the architectural theme of the Europa series.
20 Euro Bill: Gothic Architecture
Color: Blue
Size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 euro bill showcases Gothic architecture. This denomination is frequently used in daily transactions across the Eurozone.
50 Euro Bill: Renaissance Architecture
Color: Orange
Size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 euro bill represents the Renaissance period. It’s a widely circulated denomination, often used for larger purchases.
100 Euro Bill: Baroque and Rococo Architecture
Color: Green
Size: 147 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 euro bill features Baroque and Rococo architecture. This higher denomination is used for significant transactions and savings.
200 Euro Bill: Iron and Glass Architecture
Color: Yellow
Size: 153 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 euro bill represents Iron and Glass architecture, a more modern style. It’s the highest denomination currently in production within the Europa series.
First Series: The Original Euro Bills
The first series of euro banknotes, while gradually being replaced, remains legal tender. These banknotes also depict architectural styles but in a slightly different artistic manner compared to the Europa series. Notably, the first series included a €500 banknote, which is no longer issued but is still valid.
5 Euro Bill: First Series Classical Design
Color: Grey
Size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period: Classical
The first series €5 euro bill shares the same color and architectural period as its Europa series counterpart but has a distinct design.
10 Euro Bill: First Series Romanesque Design
Color: Red
Size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period: Romanesque
The first series €10 euro bill, like the €5, features a different visual style while maintaining the color and architectural theme.
20 Euro Bill: First Series Gothic Design
Color: Blue
Size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period: Gothic
The first series €20 euro bill continues the pattern of distinct designs for each series, even within the same denomination.
50 Euro Bill: First Series Renaissance Design
Color: Orange
Size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period: Renaissance
The first series €50 euro bill presents another unique design for the Renaissance architectural period.
100 Euro Bill: First Series Baroque and Rococo Design
Color: Green
Size: 147 x 82 mm
Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The first series €100 euro bill, while green like the Europa series, has its own distinct artistic interpretation of Baroque and Rococo architecture.
200 Euro Bill: First Series Iron and Glass Architecture
Color: Yellow
Size: 153 x 82 mm
Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The first series €200 euro bill completes the set of denominations common to both series, again with a unique design.
500 Euro Bill: First Series Modern 20th Century Architecture
Color: Purple
Size: 160 x 82 mm
Architectural Period: Modern 20th Century Architecture
The purple €500 euro bill, exclusive to the first series, represents Modern 20th Century architecture. Although no longer issued since 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and Future Euro Bills
It’s important to remember that all banknotes from both the first and Europa series are legal tender throughout the Eurozone. This means that even as the first series is phased out, these euro bills can still be used for payments and savings. The €500 banknote, despite no longer being issued, also retains its legal tender status.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of banknotes. Public opinion is playing a crucial role in shaping the design, with “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” identified as potential themes for these future euro bills. The final designs are expected to be decided in 2026, marking an exciting evolution for the visual identity of the euro currency.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official website of the European Central Bank (ECB) for updates on future banknotes and all aspects of euro bills.
