Euro Banknotes
There are currently two series of Euro Banknotes in circulation: the first series and the Europa series. The first series includes seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. The Europa series consists of six denominations, omitting the €500 banknote. The Europa series is gradually replacing the first series, but both are legal tender.
The first series of euro banknotes features architectural styles from various European periods on the front and bridges on the back. Each denomination has a distinct color and size. The €5 banknote is grey and depicts Classical architecture, the €10 banknote is red and showcases Romanesque architecture, and the €20 banknote is blue with Gothic architecture.
The €50 banknote is orange and represents Renaissance architecture, the €100 banknote is green with Baroque and Rococo architecture, and the €200 banknote is yellow-brown, featuring Iron and glass architecture. Finally, the €500 banknote is purple and displays Modern 20th-century architecture. These banknotes, while being phased out, remain legal tender and can be used for payments and savings.
The Europa series, introduced in 2013, also features architectural styles but incorporates enhanced security features and a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, in the watermark and hologram. The denominations in the Europa series maintain the same color scheme as the first series, with slight design modifications. The absence of the €500 banknote in the Europa series is due to concerns about its potential use in illicit activities.
The €5 Europa banknote showcases Classical architecture, much like its first series counterpart. The €10 banknote features Romanesque architecture, the €20 banknote displays Gothic architecture, and the €50 banknote represents Renaissance architecture.
The €100 and €200 banknotes continue the pattern, depicting Baroque and Rococo, and Iron and glass architecture respectively. These design choices reflect a shared European cultural heritage and promote a sense of unity across the Eurozone. Each banknote includes advanced security features to deter counterfeiting.
The Eurosystem is currently developing a new series of euro banknotes with the theme of “European culture” and “Rivers and birds.” Public input played a significant role in selecting this theme. The final designs are expected to be revealed in 2026. This ongoing process of redesigning euro banknotes ensures their security and reflects evolving European identity. The European Central Bank (ECB) provides detailed information about euro banknotes on its website, including security features and how to identify counterfeit notes.