Euro banknotes are a tangible symbol of European unity and integration, used daily by millions across the Eurozone. Understanding the different Euro Banknote Denominations is essential for everyone living in or traveling to these countries. Currently, there are two series of banknotes in circulation: the first series and the “Europa” series. Let’s explore the details of each denomination within these series.
The “Europa” Series Banknotes
The “Europa” series is the second and current series of euro banknotes, designed with enhanced security features and a refreshed look. This series includes six denominations, ranging from €5 to €200.
€5 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
- Colour: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
The €5 banknote, easily recognizable by its grey colour, represents the Classical architectural period. The designs on the banknote feature windows and gateways, symbolizing the spirit of openness and cooperation within Europe.
€10 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
- Colour: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
The red €10 banknote embodies the Romanesque architectural style. Like all euro banknotes, it doesn’t depict real monuments but rather stylized representations of architectural eras.
€20 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
- Colour: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote showcases the Gothic period. This denomination is one of the most commonly used in daily transactions across the Eurozone.
€50 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
- Colour: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote represents the Renaissance era. It is another frequently used denomination, often dispensed from ATMs.
€100 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
- Colour: Green
- Size: 147 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote embodies the Baroque and Rococo periods. These higher denomination notes are used for larger transactions and savings.
€200 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
- Colour: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and glass architecture
The yellow €200 banknote represents the Iron and glass architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries. Along with the discontinued €500 note in the Europa series, it represents the highest values in euro banknotes currently issued.
The First Series Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes was the original set introduced when the euro was launched. While being gradually replaced by the Europa series, these banknotes are still legal tender throughout the Eurozone. The first series included seven denominations, featuring the €500 banknote, which is not present in the Europa series.
€5 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical
The first series €5 banknote shares the same grey colour and Classical architectural theme as its Europa series counterpart.
€10 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque
Similarly, the red colour and Romanesque theme are consistent between both series for the €10 denomination.
€20 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote maintains its colour and Gothic theme across both series.
€50 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote design and theme are also consistent between the first and Europa series.
€100 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Green
- Size: 147 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote of the first series, while still valid, is becoming less common in circulation as the Europa series replaces it. Note the slight size difference compared to the Europa series.
€200 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and glass architecture
The yellow €200 banknote in the first series remains legal tender, even as the Europa series is now the standard. Again, note the slight size variation from the Europa series.
€500 Euro Banknote First Series
- Colour: Purple
- Size: 160 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Modern 20th century architecture
The purple €500 banknote, unique to the first series, is no longer issued since 2019 but remains legal tender. This high denomination note represented Modern 20th-century architecture.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
It’s important to remember that all banknotes from both the first and Europa series are still legal tender across the Eurozone. You can use them for payments and as a store of value. While the first series is being gradually withdrawn, they remain valid.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of euro banknotes, with citizens playing a crucial role in the design process. Themes under consideration include “European culture” and “Rivers and birds,” reflecting public preferences gathered in 2023. The final designs and issuance timeline are expected to be decided by the European Central Bank (ECB) in 2026. This exciting development signifies the ongoing evolution of euro banknotes, ensuring they remain relevant and secure for years to come.
For more detailed information, you can visit the ECB website dedicated to future banknotes: ECB: Future banknotes.
