There are currently two distinct series of euro banknotes that are considered legal tender across the Eurozone. The first series, introduced at the inception of the euro, features seven different denominations to meet a wide range of transaction needs: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and the now discontinued €500. The second and current series, known as the Europa series, refines this selection to six denominations, omitting the €500 note while retaining all others. Both series circulate concurrently, offering a diverse range of values in Euro Paper Money Denominations.
The Modern “Europa” Series of Euro Banknotes
The Europa series represents the cutting edge of euro banknote design and security. This series includes denominations from €5 up to €200, each with distinct characteristics:
€5 Euro Banknote – Grey
The €5 banknote, presented in a grey hue, is the smallest denomination in the Europa series. It measures 120 x 62 mm and its design is inspired by classical architecture.
€10 Euro Banknote – Red
The red €10 note is slightly larger, measuring 127 x 67 mm, and showcases Romanesque architectural styles in its design.
€20 Euro Banknote – Blue
In blue, the €20 banknote increases in size again to 133 x 72 mm. Its design period is Gothic architecture, reflecting a further step in European architectural history.
€50 Euro Banknote – Orange
The orange €50 banknote is a mid-range denomination, sized at 140 x 77 mm, and features Renaissance architecture.
€100 Euro Banknote – Green
The green €100 banknote, at 147 x 77 mm, represents a significant value and its design is inspired by Baroque and Rococo architectural styles.
€200 Euro Banknote – Yellow
The highest denomination currently in production, the yellow €200 banknote, is 153 x 77 mm. It showcases the architecture of the Iron and glass era, a symbol of 19th-century industrial progress.
The Original First Series Euro Banknotes
While being phased out in favor of the Europa series, the first series of euro banknotes remains legal tender. It includes all denominations of the Europa series, plus the €500 note.
€5 Euro Banknote – Grey (First Series)
Similar in color and value to its Europa series counterpart, the first series €5 note shares the same dimensions of 120 x 62 mm and classical architectural theme.
€10 Euro Banknote – Red (First Series)
The first series €10 banknote, also red, mirrors the Europa series in size (127 x 67 mm) and Romanesque architectural style.
€20 Euro Banknote – Blue (First Series)
Continuing the color scheme, the blue first series €20 note is also 133 x 72 mm and features Gothic design elements.
€50 Euro Banknote – Orange (First Series)
The orange €50 banknote in the first series maintains the 140 x 77 mm size and Renaissance theme.
€100 Euro Banknote – Green (First Series)
The green first series €100 note is slightly wider at 147 x 82 mm compared to the Europa series, and depicts Baroque and Rococo architecture.
€200 Euro Banknote – Yellow (First Series)
The yellow €200 banknote from the original series is also wider than the Europa series at 153 x 82 mm, representing Iron and glass architecture.
€500 Euro Banknote – Purple (First Series)
The purple €500 banknote, unique to the first series and no longer issued since 2019, was the largest denomination, sized at 160 x 82 mm. It represents modern 20th-century architecture.
Legal Tender Status and the Future of Euro Banknotes
It’s important to note that all banknotes from both the first and Europa series remain legal tender throughout the Eurozone. This includes the €500 banknote, even though its issuance was discontinued in 2019. Legal tender status means these banknotes can be used for payments and are recognized as a store of value.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of banknotes, incorporating public input to select themes. “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” are currently being considered as potential themes for these future euro banknotes, with final designs expected to be decided in 2026. This demonstrates the ongoing evolution and adaptation of euro paper money to reflect European identity and values.
