Euro Paper Money, more formally known as euro banknotes, is the tangible form of currency used across the Eurozone. Currently, there are two distinct series of euro banknotes in circulation, each with its own unique designs and security features. The first series, introduced at the launch of the euro, includes seven denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. The second and current series, called the Europa series, comprises six denominations, omitting the €500 banknote. Both series represent the unified currency of Europe, but understanding their differences and features is key to navigating daily transactions and appreciating the artistry behind them.
The Modern “Europa” Series Euro Banknotes
The Europa series is the latest iteration of euro paper money, designed with enhanced security features and a refreshed visual appeal. This series is named after Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, and her portrait is subtly integrated into the watermark and hologram of each banknote, adding a layer of both security and cultural significance. Let’s explore each denomination within the Europa series:
€5 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Grey
Size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Classical architecture
The €5 euro paper money is grey in color and showcases Classical architectural styles. It’s the smallest denomination in terms of value and size in the Europa series.
€10 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Red
Size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Romanesque architecture
The red €10 euro paper money features Romanesque architecture, reflecting the early medieval period in European history.
€20 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Blue
Size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Gothic architecture
Represented in blue, the €20 euro paper money displays Gothic architecture, a style prominent in Europe from the high Middle Ages.
€50 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Orange
Size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Renaissance architecture
The orange €50 euro paper money showcases Renaissance architecture, symbolizing the cultural and artistic rebirth in European history.
€100 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Green
Size: 147 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Baroque and Rococo architecture
The green €100 euro paper money highlights Baroque and Rococo architecture, known for their ornate and dramatic styles.
€200 Euro Banknote “Europa” Series
Color: Yellow
Size: 153 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Iron and glass architecture
The yellow €200 euro paper money represents Iron and glass architecture, reflecting 19th-century industrial innovation in building design.
The Original First Series Euro Banknotes
While the Europa series is the most current, the first series of euro paper money is still legal tender. These banknotes, though gradually being replaced, remain a valid form of payment throughout the Eurozone. Understanding the first series is still relevant, especially as you might encounter them in circulation.
€5 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Grey
Size: 120 x 62 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Classical architecture
Similar to the Europa series, the first series €5 banknote is grey and features Classical architecture.
€10 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Red
Size: 127 x 67 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Romanesque architecture
The red €10 banknote in the first series also depicts Romanesque architecture.
€20 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Blue
Size: 133 x 72 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Gothic architecture
The blue €20 banknote of the first series continues with the theme of Gothic architecture.
€50 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Orange
Size: 140 x 77 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Renaissance architecture
The orange €50 banknote in the original series also represents Renaissance architecture.
€100 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Green
Size: 147 x 82 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Baroque and Rococo architecture
The green €100 banknote of the first series, similar to the Europa series, showcases Baroque and Rococo styles.
€200 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Yellow
Size: 153 x 82 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Iron and glass architecture
The yellow €200 banknote in the first series also features Iron and glass architecture.
€500 Euro Banknote First Series
Color: Purple
Size: 160 x 82 mm
Architectural Period Depicted: Modern 20th century architecture
The purple €500 banknote, unique to the first series, represents Modern 20th-century architecture. Although production of the €500 banknote ceased in 2019, it remains legal tender.
Legal Tender and the Future of Euro Paper Money
It’s crucial to remember that all banknotes from both the first and Europa series are still legal tender across the Eurozone. This means they can be used for payments and as a store of value. Even though the first series is being phased out in favor of the Europa series, and the €500 banknote is no longer issued, they all retain their monetary value.
Looking ahead, the Eurosystem is actively involved in designing a new series of euro paper money. The European Central Bank (ECB) has considered public preferences and shortlisted themes like “European culture” and “Rivers and birds” for these future banknotes. A final decision on the designs and the timeline for production and issuance is expected in 2026, promising a continued evolution of euro paper money.
For those interested in providing feedback on the quality of current banknotes, the European Central Bank encourages participation in online surveys to help maintain and improve the standards of euro paper money. The future of euro paper money is being shaped now, with considerations for both security and public sentiment guiding the next generation of banknotes.
