The New 100 Euro Note: Enhanced Security and Easier Handling
The European Central Bank (ECB) has introduced the redesigned 100 Euro banknote, set to enter circulation on May 28, 2019. This new banknote is part of the Europa series, representing a significant step forward in banknote security and practicality. Following the successful rollout of the new €5, €10, €20, and €50 notes, the updated €100 note completes the Europa series, bringing cutting-edge banknote technology to this widely used denomination.
The new 100 euro banknote incorporates state-of-the-art security features designed to combat counterfeiting. Like its Europa series counterparts, the 100 euro note is easily verifiable using the simple “feel, look and tilt” method. A key innovation is the satellite hologram located at the top of the silvery stripe. This feature displays small € symbols that move around the value numeral and become distinctly visible under direct light, offering a clear visual authentication element for the 100 euro note. The silvery stripe itself is also enriched, showcasing the portrait of Europa, an architectural motif, and a prominent € symbol, further enhancing the security and visual appeal of the 100 euro banknote.
The enhanced emerald number is another crucial security feature integrated into the new 100 euro note. While the emerald number is present on all Europa series banknotes, the version on the 100 euro note is upgraded to include € symbols within the numeral itself. This dynamic feature, changing color from emerald green to deep blue and displaying a light effect that moves upwards and downwards, makes the 100 euro note even more resistant to forgery and easier for the public to authenticate.
Beyond security enhancements, the new 100 euro banknote has been redesigned for improved usability. Notably, the new 100 euro note shares the same height as the 50 euro banknote. This standardized height across the €50, €100, and €200 denominations facilitates easier handling and processing by automated machines, such as ATMs and vending machines. While the length of the banknote remains indicative of its value, the uniform height ensures that the 100 euro banknote fits more comfortably in wallets and experiences reduced wear and tear, extending its lifespan in circulation. This practical design consideration for the 100 euro note reflects a user-centric approach, aiming to improve the everyday experience of handling cash.
In addition to these visible security elements, the 100 euro banknote includes advanced machine-readable security features. These features have been both enhanced and newly added to the redesigned 100 euro note to ensure rapid and reliable processing and authentication by professional banknote handling equipment. According to Yves Mersch, Executive Board Member of the ECB, the introduction of the new 100 euro and 200 euro banknotes completes the suite of highly secure euro banknotes, offering robust protection against counterfeiting for all denominations. This commitment to continuous improvement in banknote security underscores the Eurosystem’s dedication to maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the euro currency.
The Eurosystem, comprising the ECB and the 19 national central banks of the euro area, is actively supporting manufacturers and owners of banknote processing machinery and authentication devices to prepare for the circulation of the new 100 euro banknote. This support includes facilitating equipment testing and providing a publicly accessible list of banknote processing machines that have been verified to successfully handle the new Europa series banknotes, ensuring a smooth transition and widespread acceptance of the new 100 euro note.