Euro banknotes are more than just paper money; they are a symbol of European unity and a tangible representation of the Eurozone economy. Currently, two distinct series of euro banknotes are in use across the Eurozone countries. The first series, introduced when the euro was launched, features seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. The second and more modern series, known as the Europa series, comprises six denominations, excluding the €500 banknote.
The Europa Series: Modern Euro Banknotes
The Europa series is the latest iteration of Euro Paper Currency, designed with enhanced security features and a refreshed visual appeal. It’s named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, whose portrait is included in the hologram and watermark of each banknote. This series aims to maintain the integrity of the euro and prevent counterfeiting.
€5 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Grey
Actual size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural period: Classical
The grey €5 banknote showcases classical architecture, representing the era’s open and airy designs.
€10 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Red
Actual size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural period: Romanesque
The red €10 euro banknote depicts Romanesque architecture, characterized by its solid, fortress-like appearance and rounded arches.
€20 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Blue
Actual size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural period: Gothic
The blue €20 banknote features Gothic architecture, known for its soaring heights, pointed arches, and intricate details.
€50 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Orange
Actual size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural period: Renaissance
The orange €50 banknote showcases Renaissance architecture, representing a rebirth of classical forms with an emphasis on proportion and harmony.
€100 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Green
Actual size: 147 x 77 mm
Architectural period: Baroque and Rococo
The green €100 banknote illustrates Baroque and Rococo architecture, styles characterized by grandeur, drama, and elaborate ornamentation.
€200 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Yellow
Actual size: 153 x 77 mm
Architectural period: Iron and glass architecture
The yellow €200 banknote represents Iron and glass architecture, a symbol of the industrial revolution and modern engineering.
First Series: Original Euro Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes was the initial set of designs when the euro was introduced. While gradually being replaced by the Europa series, these banknotes remain legal tender and widely accepted for transactions.
€5 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Grey
Actual size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural period: Classical
Similar to the Europa series, the first series €5 banknote also highlights classical architectural styles.
€10 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Red
Actual size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural period: Romanesque
The first series €10 banknote continues with the Romanesque theme, mirroring the architectural style of the Europa series.
€20 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Blue
Actual size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural period: Gothic
Consistent with the Europa series, the first series €20 banknote also features Gothic architectural designs.
€50 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Orange
Actual size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural period: Renaissance
The Renaissance architectural theme is maintained on the first series €50 banknote, aligning with the Europa series.
€100 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Green
Actual size: 147 x 82 mm
Architectural period: Baroque and Rococo
The first series €100 banknote also depicts Baroque and Rococo architecture, similar to the Europa series.
€200 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Yellow
Actual size: 153 x 82 mm
Architectural period: Iron and glass architecture
Continuing the theme, the first series €200 banknote also represents Iron and glass architecture.
€500 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Purple
Actual size: 160 x 82 mm
Architectural period: Modern 20th century architecture
The purple €500 banknote, exclusive to the first series, features modern 20th-century architecture. Although issuance of the €500 banknote ceased in 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Banknotes
Both the first and Europa series banknotes are legal tender across the Eurozone, meaning they can be used for payments and savings. Even though the first series is being phased out and the €500 banknote is no longer issued, all denominations from both series retain their value.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of euro banknotes. The public has played a crucial role in selecting potential themes, with “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” emerging as leading candidates. The final designs and the timeline for production and issuance are expected to be decided by the European Central Bank in 2026, signaling an exciting evolution for euro paper currency.
