There are currently two distinct series of euro banknotes in circulation across the Eurozone: the first series, which was the original design, and the more recent Europa series, which incorporates enhanced security features and a refreshed design. The initial series includes seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. The Europa series, the second and current iteration, comprises six denominations, omitting the €500 note.
The Modern “Europa” Series Euro Banknotes
The Europa series represents the cutting edge in euro banknote design, integrating advanced security features to combat counterfeiting while maintaining the familiar themes of ‘Ages and Styles’ architecture. Each banknote in this series depicts a different architectural style from European history, along with bridges and maps, symbolizing connection and openness.
€5 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Grey
Dimensions: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Classical
€10 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Red
Dimensions: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Romanesque
€20 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Blue
Dimensions: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Gothic
€50 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Orange
Dimensions: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Renaissance
€100 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Green
Dimensions: 147 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Baroque and Rococo
€200 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Yellow
Dimensions: 153 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Iron and Glass Architecture
The Original First Series Euro Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes, while gradually being replaced, remains legal tender throughout the Eurozone. These banknotes also depict architectural styles, albeit with slightly different designs and security features compared to the Europa series. Understanding both series helps in recognizing valid euro currency.
€5 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Grey
Dimensions: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Classical
€10 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Red
Dimensions: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Romanesque
€20 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Blue
Dimensions: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Gothic
€50 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Orange
Dimensions: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Renaissance
€100 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Green
Dimensions: 147 x 82 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Baroque and Rococo
€200 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Yellow
Dimensions: 153 x 82 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Iron and Glass Architecture
€500 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Purple
Dimensions: 160 x 82 mm
Architectural Period Represented: Modern 20th Century Architecture
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
While the first series banknotes are being phased out and replaced by the Europa series, it’s crucial to understand that all banknotes from both series remain legal tender. This includes the €500 banknote from the first series, even though its issuance was discontinued in 2019. Legal tender status means these banknotes can be used for payments and as a store of value throughout the Eurozone.
The Eurosystem is actively planning for the future of euro banknotes. Citizens are playing a vital role in shaping the design of the next series. The European Central Bank (ECB) has shortlisted “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” as potential themes for future designs, based on public surveys conducted in 2023. A final decision on the designs and the timeline for production and issuance of these new banknotes is expected in 2026, ensuring the euro currency continues to evolve and reflect European identity.
Provide Feedback on Banknote Quality
The European Central Bank values public feedback to maintain the quality of euro banknotes. You can contribute to this effort by participating in an online survey about the condition of euro banknotes you encounter daily.
Access the Euro Banknotes Quality Survey
(Please note: Euro coins are not detailed in this article, which focuses on euro banknotes. For information on euro coins, please refer to other resources on this website.)
