Euro banknotes and coins are the physical form of the euro, the official currency of the Eurozone and several other European countries. Managed by the Eurosystem, which comprises the European Central Bank (ECB) and the national central banks of the Eurozone countries, Euro Notes And Coins are essential for everyday transactions across this region. Currently, there are two series of euro banknotes in circulation, each with distinct designs and security features. Let’s delve into the world of euro notes and coins to understand their denominations, designs, and significance.
The Two Series of Euro Banknotes
There are two distinct series of euro banknotes that you might encounter: the first series and the Europa series. The first series, introduced when the euro was launched, includes seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. The second and current series, known as the Europa series, omits the €500 banknote and consists of six denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200. The Europa series banknotes are gradually replacing the first series, but both remain legal tender throughout the Eurozone.
Europa Series Banknotes
The Europa series is named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, whose portrait is featured in the watermark and hologram of these banknotes. These notes incorporate enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting and are designed to be more durable. Each denomination has a distinct color and size and represents a different architectural period in European history.
€5 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The €5 banknote, colored grey and measuring 120 x 62 mm, represents the Classical architectural period.
€10 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The red €10 banknote, sized at 127 x 67 mm, showcases the Romanesque architectural style.
€20 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Colored blue and measuring 133 x 72 mm, the €20 banknote embodies the Gothic architectural era.
€50 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The orange €50 banknote, with dimensions of 140 x 77 mm, is designed with the Renaissance period in mind.
€100 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
Representing the Baroque and Rococo periods, the green €100 banknote measures 147 x 77 mm.
€200 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
The yellow €200 banknote, sized at 153 x 77 mm, showcases Iron and glass architecture.
First Series Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes, while being phased out, are still valid and widely accepted. They also depict architectural styles from European history and share similar colors with the Europa series for corresponding denominations.
€5 Euro Banknote – First Series
The first series €5 banknote, also grey and 120 x 62 mm, reflects the Classical period.
€10 Euro Banknote – First Series
The red first series €10 banknote, measuring 127 x 67 mm, represents the Romanesque style.
€20 Euro Banknote – First Series
The blue first series €20 banknote, sized at 133 x 72 mm, illustrates Gothic architecture.
€50 Euro Banknote – First Series
The orange first series €50 banknote, with dimensions of 140 x 77 mm, showcases the Renaissance period.
€100 Euro Banknote – First Series
The green first series €100 banknote, measuring 147 x 82 mm, represents Baroque and Rococo styles.
€200 Euro Banknote – First Series
The yellow first series €200 banknote, sized at 153 x 82 mm, features Iron and glass architecture.
€500 Euro Banknote – First Series
The purple €500 banknote, the largest at 160 x 82 mm, represents Modern 20th-century architecture. Although issuance ceased in 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and Future Banknotes
All banknotes from both the first and Europa series are legal tender in the Eurozone. This means they can be used for payments and as a store of value. Even the €500 banknote, despite no longer being issued, retains its legal tender status.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of euro banknotes. Public opinion is playing a crucial role in shaping the design, with “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” selected as potential themes for these future banknotes. The final designs and the timeline for production and issuance are expected to be decided by the ECB in 2026.
For more detailed information, you can visit the ECB’s official website dedicated to future banknotes.
Understanding euro notes and coins is vital for anyone living in or traveling to the Eurozone. Being familiar with the different denominations, series, and security features helps ensure smooth transactions and awareness of this important currency.
