Euro banknotes are a tangible symbol of European unity, used daily by millions across the Eurozone. It’s important to be familiar with the different series of banknotes currently in circulation. Currently, there are two distinct series of euro banknotes that are considered legal tender: the first series, introduced in 2002, and the more recent Europa series. This guide will walk you through the features of both series, helping you identify each denomination and understand their key characteristics.
The “Europa” Series: Modern Euro Banknotes
The Europa series is the second and current series of euro banknotes, named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology. This series was introduced gradually, starting with the €5 banknote in 2013, and includes six denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200. Notably, the €500 banknote is not included in the Europa series.
Design and Security Features of the Europa Series
The Europa series banknotes retain the “ages and styles” design theme of the first series, representing different periods of European architecture. However, they incorporate enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting. These features include a portrait hologram of Europa, an emerald number that changes color when tilted, and raised print.
Denominations of the Europa Series
Each denomination in the Europa series has a distinct color, size, and architectural style associated with it. Let’s explore each one:
5 Euro Note – Europa Series
- Color: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical Architecture
- Description: The grey €5 note showcases classical architectural styles, representing the earliest periods of European architecture.
10 Euro Note – Europa Series
- Color: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque Architecture
- Description: The red €10 note features Romanesque architecture, known for its rounded arches and massive structures, prevalent in Europe during the 11th and 12th centuries.
20 Euro Note – Europa Series
- Color: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic Architecture
- Description: The blue €20 note displays Gothic architecture, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which flourished in Europe from the 12th to 16th centuries.
50 Euro Note – Europa Series
- Color: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance Architecture
- Description: The orange €50 note represents Renaissance architecture, a style that emerged in Italy in the 15th century and spread across Europe, known for its classical proportions, symmetry, and use of domes.
100 Euro Note – Europa Series
- Color: Green
- Size: 147 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo Architecture
- Description: The green €100 note showcases Baroque and Rococo architecture, styles that followed the Renaissance, characterized by grandeur, drama, and ornate decoration.
200 Euro Note – Europa Series
- Color: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
- Description: The yellow €200 note represents the Iron and Glass architecture of the 19th century, marking a shift towards modern architectural materials and techniques.
The First Series: Classic Euro Banknotes
The first series of euro banknotes was the original set introduced when the euro currency was launched. While being gradually replaced by the Europa series, these banknotes remain legal tender and are still in circulation. The first series includes all seven denominations, including the €500 note.
Overview of the First Series
Similar to the Europa series, the first series also uses the “ages and styles” theme, depicting architectural styles. However, the designs are slightly different, and they lack some of the advanced security features of the Europa series.
Denominations of the First Series
Let’s examine each denomination of the first series:
5 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Grey
- Size: 120 x 62 mm
- Architectural Period: Classical Architecture
- Description: The first series €5 note, like its Europa series counterpart, is grey and features classical architectural elements.
10 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Red
- Size: 127 x 67 mm
- Architectural Period: Romanesque Architecture
- Description: The red €10 note from the first series also showcases Romanesque architecture.
20 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Blue
- Size: 133 x 72 mm
- Architectural Period: Gothic Architecture
- Description: The blue €20 note of the first series depicts Gothic architectural styles.
50 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Orange
- Size: 140 x 77 mm
- Architectural Period: Renaissance Architecture
- Description: The orange €50 note in the first series represents Renaissance architecture.
100 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Green
- Size: 147 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Baroque and Rococo Architecture
- Description: The green €100 note of the first series features Baroque and Rococo architectural designs.
200 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Yellow
- Size: 153 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Iron and Glass Architecture
- Description: The yellow €200 note in the first series represents 19th-century Iron and Glass architecture.
500 Euro Note – First Series
- Color: Purple
- Size: 160 x 82 mm
- Architectural Period: Modern 20th Century Architecture
- Description: The purple €500 note, exclusive to the first series, represents modern 20th-century architecture. Although issuance of the €500 note ceased in 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender Status and the Future of Euro Notes
It’s important to remember that all banknotes from both the first and Europa series are still legal tender throughout the Eurozone. This means 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, retains its legal tender status.
The Eurosystem is continually evolving its banknotes to maintain security and public trust. Currently, the European Central Bank (ECB) is working on designing a new series of banknotes, with input from European citizens.
The potential themes for future euro banknotes are “European culture” and “Rivers and birds,” reflecting the preferences expressed by the public in surveys conducted in 2023. The ECB is expected to make a final decision on the designs and timeline for production and issuance of these new banknotes in 2026.
For more detailed information on the future of euro banknotes, you can visit the ECB website.
Understanding the different series and denominations of euro notes helps you navigate cash transactions with confidence and appreciate the symbols of European unity in your wallet.
