Euro Currency Notes Denominations: A Comprehensive Guide

The euro, the official currency of 19 European Union member states, comes in various denominations of banknotes and coins. This guide focuses on the Euro Currency Notes Denominations, exploring the two series in circulation and the designs for future banknotes.

Euro Banknote Series: A Historical Overview

Currently, two series of euro banknotes are in circulation: the first series and the Europa series. Both series feature distinct designs and security features. Understanding the different euro currency notes denominations is crucial for anyone traveling to or living within the Eurozone.

The First Series of Euro Banknotes

The first series of euro banknotes includes seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. Each note depicts architectural styles from different European historical periods on the front and bridges on the back. The colors used for each denomination aid in quick recognition:

• €5: Grey, depicting Classical architecture.
• €10: Red, showcasing Romanesque architecture.
• €20: Blue, representing Gothic architecture.
• €50: Orange, illustrating Renaissance architecture.
• €100: Green, featuring Baroque and Rococo architecture.
• €200: Yellow-brown, highlighting Iron and Glass architecture.
• €500: Purple, representing Modern 20th-century architecture.

While the €500 banknote is no longer issued, it remains legal tender.

The Europa Series of Euro Banknotes

The Europa series, the second series of euro banknotes, aims to enhance security and durability. This series currently comprises six denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200. The €500 note was not carried over to this series. The Europa series features a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, in the watermark and hologram. Each denomination retains its color from the first series but showcases different architectural eras:

• €5: Grey, Classical architecture.
• €10: Red, Romanesque architecture.
• €20: Blue, Gothic architecture.
• €50: Orange, Renaissance architecture.
• €100: Green, Baroque and Rococo architecture.
• €200: Yellow-brown, Iron and Glass architecture.

The Europa series banknotes gradually replace the first series, with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting.

The Future of Euro Banknotes

The European Central Bank (ECB) is currently developing a new series of euro banknotes, with an expected release in 2026. The chosen themes for the new designs are “European culture” and “Rivers and birds.” Public consultations and surveys contributed to the theme selection. This ongoing process demonstrates the ECB’s commitment to engaging citizens in the evolution of euro currency notes denominations.