Euro banknotes are more than just currency; they are a symbol of European unity and a tangible representation of the Eurozone economy. Currently, two distinct series of banknotes are in circulation, each with its own unique characteristics and history. This guide will delve into the world of euro banknotes, exploring both the first and Europa series, their denominations, designs, and the ongoing evolution of this important currency.
The First Series of Euro Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes was the original set introduced when the euro was launched in 2002. This series features seven different denominations, designed to meet the diverse needs of everyday transactions across the Eurozone. These denominations include: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and the now discontinued €500 banknote.
Each banknote in the first series is distinguished by its color, size, and the architectural period it represents. The designs showcase the history and culture of Europe through stylized windows and gateways, symbolizing openness and connection.
Exploring Each Denomination of the First Series
Let’s take a closer look at each denomination within the first series, highlighting their key features:
€5 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Grey
- Actual Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 banknote, the smallest denomination, is colored grey and represents the Classical architectural period.
€10 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Red
- Actual Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red €10 banknote showcases the Romanesque architectural period, known for its solid and robust designs.
€20 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Blue
- Actual Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote represents the Gothic period, characterized by its soaring arches and intricate details.
€50 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Orange
- Actual Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote embodies the Renaissance period, a time of rebirth and flourishing of art and culture.
€100 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Green
- Actual Size: 147 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote displays the Baroque and Rococo periods, known for their ornate and elaborate styles.
€200 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Yellow
- Actual Size: 153 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 banknote represents the Iron and Glass architecture of the 19th century, a period of industrial innovation.
€500 Euro Banknote (First Series)
- Colour: Purple
- Actual Size: 160 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Modern 20th Century Architecture
The purple €500 banknote, the largest denomination in the first series and no longer issued since 2019, represents modern 20th-century architecture.
The “Europa” Series: An Updated Design for Euro Banknotes
The second and current series of euro banknotes is known as the “Europa” series. This series was introduced gradually, starting with the €5 banknote in 2013, with the aim of enhancing security features and giving the banknotes a fresh, updated look. The Europa series consists of six denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200. The €500 banknote is not included in this series.
The “Europa” series banknotes incorporate a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, which is visible in the hologram and watermark. This portrait adds a personal and recognizable element to the banknotes, further strengthening their identity. These banknotes also feature more advanced security features to combat counterfeiting, making them more secure than the first series.
Denominations in the Europa Series
Let’s explore each denomination of the Europa series and see how they compare to their first series counterparts:
€5 Euro Banknote (Europa Series)
- Colour: Grey
- Actual Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 Europa series banknote retains the grey color and Classical architectural theme of the first series.
€10 Euro Banknote (Europa Series)
- Colour: Red
- Actual Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The €10 Europa series banknote continues with the red color and Romanesque theme.
€20 Euro Banknote (Europa Series)
- Colour: Blue
- Actual Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 Europa series banknote also maintains the Gothic architectural style.
€50 Euro Banknote (Europa Series)
- Colour: Orange
- Actual Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 Europa series banknote continues to represent the Renaissance period.
€100 Euro Banknote (Europa Series)
- Colour: Green
- Actual Size: 147 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 Europa series banknote also maintains the Baroque and Rococo architectural theme.
€200 Euro Banknote (Europa Series)
- Colour: Yellow
- Actual Size: 153 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
The yellow €200 Europa series banknote continues to represent Iron and Glass architecture.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
While the Europa series is gradually replacing the first series, all banknotes from both series remain legal tender across the Eurozone. This means that both series can be used for payments and as a store of value. Even the €500 banknote from the first series, despite no longer being issued since 2019, retains its legal tender status.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively planning the design of a new series of banknotes, with citizens playing a vital role in the selection process. “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” have been selected as potential themes for these future banknotes, reflecting the preferences expressed by the European public in recent surveys. The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to finalize the designs and decide on the production and issuance timeline for these new banknotes in 2026. This ongoing evolution ensures that euro banknotes remain relevant, secure, and reflective of European identity.
In conclusion, understanding the nuances of euro banknotes, from their different series and denominations to their security features and future developments, provides valuable insight into this essential aspect of the Eurozone economy and European integration.
