The Euros Currency, symbolized as € and the official currency of the Eurozone, is visually represented by its banknotes. Currently, two distinct series of euro banknotes are in circulation, each telling a story of European integration and history. This guide will walk you through the denominations, designs, and key features of both the first and Europa series of euro banknotes.
The Europa Series: Modern Euro Banknotes
The Europa series is the second and current series of euro banknotes, designed with enhanced security features and a refreshed look. It omits the €500 denomination but includes six other denominations widely used across the Eurozone.
€5 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical architecture, representing the early periods of European history.
€10 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque architecture, reflecting the 11th and 12th centuries.
€20 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic architecture, characteristic of the 13th and 14th centuries.
€50 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance architecture, representing the 15th and 16th centuries.
€100 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Green
- Size: 147 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo architecture, styles prevalent in the 17th and 18th centuries.
€200 Euro Banknote – Europa Series
- Color: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and glass architecture, symbolizing the 19th century.
The First Series: Original Euro Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes was the original set introduced when the euros currency was launched. While being gradually replaced by the Europa series, these banknotes remain legal tender throughout the Eurozone. This series included the €500 banknote, which is no longer issued.
€5 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical architecture, similar to the Europa series, representing foundational European styles.
€10 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque architecture, consistent with the Europa series in its representation.
€20 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic architecture, mirroring the theme in the Europa series.
€50 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance architecture, maintaining the architectural period theme.
€100 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Green
- Size: 147 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo architecture, similar to the Europa series.
€200 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and glass architecture, continuing the 19th-century representation.
€500 Euro Banknote – First Series
- Color: Purple
- Size: 160 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Modern 20th-century architecture, representing contemporary European design.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euros Currency Banknotes
It’s important to note that all banknotes from the first series are still legal tender and can be used for payments, even as they are gradually being replaced. The €500 banknote from the first series, while no longer issued since 2019, also remains legal tender. This ensures a smooth transition and maintains the value of the euros currency in circulation.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively developing a new series of banknotes, aiming to reflect European identity and engage citizens in the design process. Themes like “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” are being considered for these future banknotes, with final designs expected by 2026. This evolution demonstrates the ongoing commitment to the euros currency and its visual representation as a symbol of European unity and progress.
For more detailed information, you can visit the European Central Bank (ECB) website for updates on future banknote designs and the euros currency system.
