Euro banknotes years of issue. New euro banknotes
The euro is the single currency within the EU, accepted in many European countries. The currency has been in circulation since 2002. Its management and issuance policy is handled by the European Bank in Frankfurt. Through the system of national banks in Europe, cash is printed, distributed between countries and administered by the system.
Basic characteristics of cash
Studying the topic of what Euro bills and coins exist, you can note their total number of 7 banknotes and 8 coins. They are presented in the form of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. On the Internet you can find a photo of a 1000 Euro banknote, which in fact has not yet been issued and is counterfeit.
All euro cash is united by a single style of printing and design. Depending on the denomination, the color combination and size of the bill changes. The size increases as the denomination increases. The front side depicts gates, windows, facades, symbolizing the openness and willingness to cooperate of European countries. Bridges are printed on the back - symbols of open communication and connection with the whole world.
All images are schematic illustrations dating from different historical periods and are not actual objects. The original design, Robert Kalina, used existing structures, but for political reasons they were replaced with symbolic structures. The common elements of any banknote include:
- EU flag with 12 stars;
- abbreviation of the European Central Bank "ECB", made in 5 languages;
- signature of the head of the bank;
- name of the currency in Greek and Latin;
- A map is printed on the back.
Coins
Coins starting from 1 cent are in circulation. Next come 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. There are also 1 and 2 euros. All coins are united by a common image of a number against the background of a European map, made schematically. It is surrounded by 12 stars, to which parallel straight lines are drawn. The 1, 2, and 5 cents show Europe on the world map. At 10, 20 and 50 cents, European countries are shown separately. The 1 and 2 euro coins reflect the unified EU map without borders.
On the reverse there is an element of the country where the coin was made. This feature does not prevent the use of coins in other countries with Euro currency. The coin has an edge that helps people with low vision establish its value.
Coins from 1 to 5 cents are made of steel and copper plated. They have a reddish tint. The denominations 10, 20 and 50 are distinguished by their yellow color. Nordic Gold metal was used for their minting. 1 and 2 Euro are characterized by a design combination of two shades: white and yellow. Nickel alloys and alloys with the addition of copper and zinc are used for manufacturing. Bimetal is used to prevent counterfeiting. Text has been added to the edge of the 2 Euro coin, varying depending on the country of origin.
The denomination of the 2 Euro banknote is often used for minting commemorative coins. The obverse does not differ from the usual sample. The reverse may depict famous personalities and representatives of the plant world. The price of such coins is always significantly higher, since the composition includes precious metals, and the issue is very limited.
Types of banknotes and their protection
The euro is recognized as the most protected currency. When printing, modern chemicals and the latest technologies are used. Special cotton paper is used for production. The smoothness of the front side is combined with the roughness of the back. The paper has the necessary rigidity and slightly crunches when bent. Does not glow in UV radiation.
Using relief printing, the denomination of the banknote, the abbreviation of the Central Bank, made in 5 languages, the year of manufacture, and the main design are depicted. These elements can be felt with your hands. By combining areas with different densities, watermarks are used. Next to them you can distinguish vertical stripes in dark and light colors - a barcode.
The size of the denomination affects the use of two types of holograms. For 5, 10, and 20 euros, a silver stripe is used across the entire width; for the rest of the money, a geometric overlay is used. In both cases it is a pressed foil print. It is equipped with a 3D image effect. The hologram has micro-perforation in the shape of a banknote. The perforation is the same for each bill. The design is made with a laser beam and is not felt when touched.
On the back, in the middle of the 5, 10 and 20 banknotes, there is a stripe with a golden shiny tint. When tilted in different directions, you can see the number of the bill and the euro sign. Shine with a pearlescent tint is achieved through iridescent paint.
5 euros
Considering the question of what kind of Euro banknotes there are, it is worth starting with the smallest of paper money. The minimum Euro banknote is made in gray tones with the stamp of architecture in the classical style. The size is 120 by 62 mm. A triumphal arch is printed on the front, offset to the right. In the center there are 12 stars in the shape of the emblem of the Union of Europe, and in the top left corner is the EU flag. The back part, along with the map, was occupied by the aqueduct.
Methods of protection include a water element in the form of an arch and a number. On the left is a security thread. It shows a text of 5 EURO. There is a holographic tape on the front right side. When turning, the following appear: a banknote, the number 5 and the name of the currency in Greek and Latin. Additionally, it is worth noting the matte finish and the presence of a serial number.
10 euros
The photo of the 10 Euro note is dominated by a red tint and the use of Romanesque style architecture. The length of the banknote is 127 mm, width - 67 mm. On one side there is an arch along with the stars and the flag. At the back is a bridge made of stone. The Saint-Benez bridge is used as a basis. The buildings date back to the period of the 11th–12th centuries.
The number 10 and an arch are used as a water element. On the left side of the security thread you can see the text 10 EURO repeated. The denomination and banknote are visible on a 10 mm hologram. In ultraviolet light, the 12 stars appear bright orange, while the map and bridge appear green. The rest of the background is darkened.
20 euros
Printed in blue on paper 133 mm long and 72 mm wide. The front side was occupied by an arched window in the Gothic style. The appearance of the bridge on the back dates back to the 13th-14th centuries. The banknote also features EU stars, a flag and a map. Security against counterfeiting is maintained by water inserts, vertical thread and holographic tape.
50 Euro
The new 50 Euro banknote went into circulation in April 2017. It has acquired an intense orange tint compared to the previous version. The size is 147 by 77 mm. The window on the front side and the bridge at the back are made in the Renaissance style. Thick paper with the addition of cotton was used for printing, which significantly increased the life of the bill.
The watermark is depicted as a portrait of the mythical goddess after whom Europe is named. The denomination placed in the corner changes color when tilted. An image of a window and a portrait of the goddess were added to the hologram. The euro inscription is additionally printed in Cyrillic. The innovation appeared after Bulgaria joined the EU. For people with low vision, there is a tactile determination of the denomination. There are ribbed oblique stripes on the sides.
100 euro
Answering the question of what the 100 Euro bill looks like, the predominance of green color and Rococo and Baroque architectural styles are noted. The dimensions of the 100 Euro banknote are 147 mm long and 82 mm wide. The arch with the figures of Atlas and the bridge date back to the 17th–18th centuries. The photo of the 100 Euro note shows the traditional symbols of the 12 stars, the EU flag, the signature of the President of the Central Bank and the map.
The water insert is visible from both sides in the light. Made in the shape of an arch. 100 EURO is printed on the security thread. There is a hologram on the front right side. Using UV ink, the 12 stars turn bright orange, the bridge and map turn green, and the main background turns dark blue. Additional protections specific to larger monetary units:
- microprinting;
- matte coating;
- serial number;
- constellation EURion;
- perforation;
- matching elements of the number 100.
200 euros
Looking at the photo of the 200 Euro bill, what stands out is its yellowish color and the style of architecture with a predominance of steel and glazing. The length of the banknote is 153 mm, width – 82 mm. The front part is distinguished by the image of a metal gate with glass inserts. On the back is a metal bridge and a map of the territory of Europe. The structures belong to the Art Nouveau era.
The main differences of authenticity are the water elements, the protective thread, and the EURion constellation. For printing, ink that is visible in ultraviolet light and color-changing ink are used. The matte finish of the image is combined with perforation and microprinting. The serial number includes the issuer code. On the front part at the bottom there are raised vertical lines that allow you to identify the bill tactilely.
500 Euro
The largest Euro banknote has been printed since 2002. Its printing will cease in 2018. In the photo of the 500 Euro banknote, the purple tint predominates. The design was chosen in the style of modern buildings of the 20th century and corresponds to modernism. The size of the 500 Euro banknote is 160 by 80 mm. Printed on the front is the façade of the newest glazed concrete structure. On the reverse is a diagram of suspension bridges.
The banknote has a watermark with denomination text and an image of the building on the obverse. To the left of the main picture there is a hologram. It has a predominant number of degrees of protection, including matching elements, multi-colored fibers, microtext, etc. The convex parts and strength of the paper are felt to the touch. The bank abbreviation is made in relief printing.
Country code and cliche
Only national central banks of European countries have the right to print banknotes and produce coins. In this matter, their actions are subordinate to the Central Bank - the ECB. The ECB Council decides on the need for additional emissions. The council must include representatives of EU national banks.
The place of manufacture will be determined by each state independently. These may be their own printing houses or organized production in another country. The denominations of Euro banknotes, photos of which refer to different countries, have corresponding numbers. It is by the first letter in the number that you can determine the country of issue of any banknote. A specific issuer is identified by a checksum that performs the function of protecting against counterfeiting.
So, L is for Finland, M is for Portugal, S is for Italy, etc. The country of Luxembourg is not assigned its own letter because it does not issue cash.
The cliche number consists of 6 characters, containing information about the printing house where the money was printed. The code never coincides with the country number and is decrypted as follows:
- the letter defines the typography;
- the three subsequent digits indicate the number of the printing plate;
- the fifth letter symbol means a row on the cliche;
- The sixth digit is the number of the column where the bill is placed on the cliche.
In Europe, private enterprises operate along with state printing houses. They operate on the basis of a license. Thus, in Germany, cash production is carried out by printing houses located in both the eastern and western regions. In France there is a state-owned enterprise and a private printing company.
EU Bank
The main functions in the field of regulation of the Euro belong to the Central Bank of Europe, formed in June 1998. The main office is located in Frankfurt. The leadership consists of representatives of all countries of the union. The signature of the Bank's director is reflected on each banknote. The director is elected every 8 years. It is now led by Mario Draghi since 2011. Main functions of the bank:
- development and implementation of foreign exchange regulation policy in the EU;
- regulation and control over the content of monetary reserves of the European Union countries;
- issue of cash;
- establishing current rates;
- management in the field of stability of the price range of Euro countries. The inflation rate remains around 2%.
The euro banknote is one of the main targets of counterfeiters
How to check the authenticity of a euro Photo: http://leganerd.com/
More than 20 years ago (January 1, 1999), the euro first entered non-cash circulation. And three years later - from January 1, 2002 - the new currency entered into cash circulation. Banknotes began to appear in Europeans' wallets. Today, 19 EU countries have switched to a single currency.
The problem of counterfeit banknotes continues to harm businesses and ordinary citizens year after year. In this review PaySpace Magazine editorial staff will tell you how to check the authenticity of a euro without having specific equipment at hand.
What do euro banknotes look like?
Before you check the authenticity of the euro, you need to know what European banknotes look like: what colors, sizes and images correspond to different banknote denominations. Then you will immediately recognize counterfeit euros with additional zeros on them.
Over the entire existence of the euro, the European Central Bank has issued 2 series of banknotes.
First issue "2002 Series" has 7 banknote denominations: 5€, 10€, 20€, 50€, 100€,200€, 500€.
Second issue of the “Europe Series” so far it contains only 4 denominations: 5€, 10€, 20€, 50€. The first banknotes of this series appeared in circulation in 2013.
How to check the euro: a quick way
If you need to determine whether euros are real or not, and you are short on time, limit yourself to a basic check.
- The banknote should be dense and rough to the touch thanks to the cotton paper
- Against the light, watermarks, a protective strip with the denomination of the banknote and elements of numbers that together form the denomination of the banknote appear on the banknote
- At an angle, some elements (hologram and golden stripe) will change color
How to check the authenticity of the euro: detailed examination
The security of euro banknotes is one of the most modern in the world. However, this does not stop counterfeiters. Let’s try to figure out what a genuine euro banknote should look like with all the security elements without exception, using the “Series 2002” banknotes as an example.
- Paper. Euros are printed on special cotton paper. This gives it rigidity and makes it “crunch” when bent. The front side of the banknote is smooth. And on the other hand, it’s rough.
- Seal. A special printing method makes the images appear in relief. By touch you can distinguish the main image, the abbreviation of the European Central Bank in five languages, the date of issue of the series, the sign and word “euro”, and the denomination of the banknote. All these elements are located on the obverse. The 200 and 500 euro banknotes also have special serifs for people with low vision.
- Water marks. Due to the different thicknesses of banknote paper, images and numbers are visible when holding the banknote up to light. They are visible on both the obverse and the reverse.
- Mosaic. In normal lighting, there are elements of numbers on the euro, but if you look at the bill against the light, the denomination of the banknote will be visible on both sides thanks to invisible lines
Security tape and thread on the 20 euro banknote
- Security thread is located in the thickness of the paper and is visible through the light. It bears the denomination of the banknote and the word euro.
- Security strip visible from an angle, has a pearlescent gold color and displays the denomination of the banknote (used for 5,10 and 20 euros)
- Microtext noticeable upon detailed examination of the inscriptions and stripes printed on the banknote, for example, on the EYPO element (euro in Greek) and on architectural ensembles.
Microtext on the 50 euro banknote Photo: effektivo.eu
- Ultraviolet makes only some elements of the banknote glow - veins of red, blue and green colors in the thickness of the paper, the green and orange flag of the European Union, the signature of the head of the ECB, the stars and the ring on the front side of the banknote. The card, bridges and denomination on the reverse side glow yellow. However, the color of the paper itself does not change.
- Infrared light makes part of the image invisible.
- Hologram for 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, when turning the banknote, the image changes from the denomination to a door or window. And the holographic tape is from the denomination to the euro sign.
Holographic ribbon on the 20 euro banknote
How to check the authenticity of the euro series "Europe"?
The banknotes that the ECB began issuing in 2013 have the same standard security features as the 2002 Series. And a few additional differences:
- Europe, character from ancient Greek mythology, depicted on the watermark and window of the holographic tape
Mythological character “Europe” Photo: nuove-banconote-euro.eu
- Map Cyprus and Malta were added to the reverse of the banknote in connection with joining the European Union
- EURO and ECB written in Cyrillic after Bulgaria joined the EU.
- On the obverse emerald denomination of the banknote appeared
Emerald banknote denomination and Cyrillic inscriptions Photo: YouTube
How to check the authenticity of a euro: simple mathematics
If all the images on the banknote seem real, but doubts about the authenticity of the banknote remain, you can check it using a calculator.
Each banknote has a unique number. It consists of a letter and an 11-digit number. The sum of these numbers and the letter always gives the number 8.
Let's check it using an identifier as an example S22227803764
Add up all the digits of the number 22227803764:
2+2+2+2+7+8+0+3+7+6+4 = 43.
We add to this number the serial number of the letter S in the English alphabet - 19
Now there is no doubt left, the banknote that is in your hands is genuine!
What denominations of euro banknotes and coins are in circulation today? This question is of interest not only to those people who deal with currency as part of their work, but also to ordinary citizens. Let's look at the issue in the article and simultaneously cover the topics of the appearance of money and its protection.
When starting to study the issue of euro money, the first thing to note is the number of monetary units. There are 7 denominations for banknotes and 8 for coins.
Banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros are used.
Important! Sometimes on the Internet you can find advertisements for the sale of collectible 1,000 euros. There is no such means of payment. This is a fraud.
The coins have denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents. From this series, 1 and 2 euros stand out. We will discuss the topic in more detail below.
Both paper and metal are characterized by the same style of printing and designs used. The denomination determines the size of the bill itself and what color is used for it.
Note 1. The higher the denomination of the banknote, the larger it is in size.
On the front side money there are images of a variety of gates, windows and facades, which is a symbol of openness to the world and willingness to cooperate. On the other side one can observe bridges, which in turn symbolize the desire for limitless communication with other states and peoples.
Note 2. All drawings on the euro are schematic illustrations. They relate to different historical eras and do not represent objects that exist in reality. Interestingly, Robert Kalina, the author-designer, initially used images of real objects, but they were later replaced for political reasons.
What common elements can be seen on euro banknotes:
- European Union flag with twelve stars;
- the abbreviation “ECB” (European Central Bank), which is written in five languages;
- signature of the bank manager;
- name of the currency in Greek and Latin;
- map of Europe (on the back).
What protection do banknotes have?
The euro is one of the most protected currencies. When printing, only modern chemicals and technologies are used.
Material used– specially designed cotton paper. It is seriously durable. At the same time, if you crush money, you will hear a slight crunch. It does not glow in ultraviolet light.
The front side is smooth, but the back is rough.
The denomination, the abbreviation "ECB" (five languages), the year of issue and the main illustration are created using relief printing. All of these elements can be easily felt blindly.
Apply and water marks: areas of different densities are combined. Nearby you can distinguish vertically oriented stripes: they are made in dark and light colors - this barcode.
Depending on the denomination used two types of hologram. There is a silver stripe across the entire width of the banknote for 5, 10 and 20 euros. For other money there is a geometric overlay. Both options imply pressed foil printing: It has a 3D effect. There is on the hologram microperforation in the form of a banknote - it is identical for all banknotes. The image itself is made using a laser and cannot be detected by touch.
The turnover of 5, 10 and 20 euros has golden shiny stripe. If you tilt the bill, you can see the denomination number and the designation of the European currency from different angles. The pearlescent shine is achieved through the use of iridescent paint.
The architectural elements used in the images belong to the Baroque and Rococo styles: an arch with atlases and a bridge.
Dimensions: 147 by 82 mm.
Traditional symbols available: 12 stars, EU flag, map, signature of the ECB director.
Watermark can be viewed from both sides against the light. It is made in the form of an arch. On the security thread there is an inscription “100 EURO”. There is a hologram on the right side of the front side.
Under ultraviolet light the stars take on an orange tint, the bridge and map turn green, and the background turns dark blue.
There are security features typical of high denomination banknotes, such as microprinting, matte finish, perforation and matching elements of the number 100.
One of the three largest denomination notes - 100 euros
200
What first catches your eye is the bright yellow color of the banknote. The images illustrate architecture using steel and glass (Art Nouveau style).
153 by 82 millimeters – banknote size s.
On the face of the money, a gate with glass inserts is visible. On the back is a metal bridge and a map of Europe.
EURion (12 stars), watermarks and security thread are also in place.
The matte finish of the image is complemented by perforation and microprinting.
On the front side at the bottom there are vertical lines in relief - they help to identify the banknote tactilely.
200. Yellow banknote
500
This is the largest banknote - both in size and in denomination. Published since 2002. Today it is no longer produced, although it is in circulation.
The color of money is purple. The architectural elements illustrated are from modern buildings.
Dimensions: 160 by 80 mm.
On the front side there is an image of a modern glazed reinforced concrete building. On the back are suspension bridges.
The banknote has a watermark indicating the denomination and a hologram. In addition to this, there are other security elements: colored fibers, microtext, etc.
To the touch you can note the special strength of the paper and its relief.
The largest bill. Purple 500 euros
Coins
We already mentioned above that there are only 8 coins. 6 of them are cents. Two more - euro.
Although minting occurs in different countries, and the design may differ slightly, there are still elements common to all coins:
- map of Europe and denomination against its background;
- 12 stars on reverse and obverse;
- uniform font;
- sketchiness.
The reverse of 1, 2 and 5 cents features an image of the Earth with Europe indicated on it. 10, 20 and 50 cents show EU members who have not yet united, but are striving for this. 1 and 2 euros already demonstrate Europe as a single whole – without any borders.
Note 3. No country has the right to change the reverse. It is universal for everyone. The obverse may contain elements that are installed by the issuer, although, for example, 12 stars on the outer circle still remain.
Cents and euros. Coins
Specifics of stamping
Each EU member can mint unique coins. Their obverse will be different from the others - it is considered the “national side”. Wherein, 12 stars are an indispensable attribute of all money.
There are 23 obverse options in total.
Some states have created several types of coins of the same denomination. For example, Belgium issued 4 varieties of 1 euro from 1999 to 2014.
Current denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50.
The first three coins are steel. They are reddish in color, because... covered with copper. Their edge is smooth (with the exception of 2 cents, which have a groove).
Money from 10 to 50 cents is made of “Scandinavian gold” (a special alloy based on copper - with the addition of aluminum, zinc and tin). The edge of such coins is ribbed.
The 20 cents are especially distinctive - the so-called “Spanish flower”: seven indentations across equal sections of diameter.
1 and 2 euros
A characteristic feature is the bimetallic composition. The structure has an inner circle as well as an outer one (with 12 stars). The outer circle of 1 euro is made of yellow metal, and that of 2 is made of white metal.
The 2 euro coin is in particular demand among numismatists.
The edge of 1 euro is six alternating segments (three smooth, three ribbed). In the case of 2 euros, there is also an inscription, which is determined by the country where the coin was minted: for Germany it is “EINIGKEIT UND RECHT UND FREIHEIT” (without quotes), for the Netherlands it is “GOD ★ ZIJ ★ MET ★ ONS ★” (inscription “ God is with us” – has asterisks inside between the words).
Anniversary and commemorative money
Commemorative coins are usually 2 euro coins. Today there is 309 varieties.
Important! Each EU state has the right to issue its own souvenir coins, which depict significant events in the history of the state. We often talk about independence anniversaries.
There is also money whose issue has one theme that unites all EU members.
Important! Souvenir/commemorative coins are legal tender. However, due to their collectible value, rarely does anyone use them for their intended purpose.
Over the entire existence of the European Union, the following general series have been implemented:
- Treaty of Rome, 2007 – 13 coins;
- 10th anniversary of the Economic and Monetary Union, 2009 – 16 mon.;
- 10th anniversary of the euro, 2012 – 17 mon.;
- 30th anniversary of the EU flag, 2015 – 19 mon.
Example 1. Some countries issue series of commemorative money. For example, in Germany there are 16 types of coins in use, dedicated to the theme of the Federal States. A series of “UNESCO Cultural and Natural World Heritage Monuments” has been organized in Spain.
German 2 euro coin. Series "Treaty of Rome"
Note 4. There are also coins with a denomination of 5 euros. It can be used as a means of payment, but only in the territory of the issuing country. It is rarely present in circulation, because considered collectible.
State codes and cliches
Only the national central banks of European countries have the right to print banknotes and issue euro coins. As part of this activity, they are subordinate to the ECB. The Council of the European Central Bank is, among other things, responsible for decisions concerning carrying out an additional issue.
Note 5. The ECB Council always includes representatives of the national banks of the European Union.
Where money is made is determined by each country individually. Both their own printing centers and production facilities in another state can be used.
Important! Euro denominations have their own numbers - by the first letter in it you can determine which country is the issuer of the banknote. A specific issuer is identified by a checksum that plays the role of protection against counterfeiting.
Example 2. Finland is the letter “L”, Portugal is “M”, Italy is “S”. It is curious that, for example, Luxembourg does not have its own letter, since this state entity does not issue cash at all.
The cliche number consists of 6 characters - they contain information about the printing house where the banknotes were printed. Under no circumstances can the code be the same as the country number, and it stands for this:
- the letter defines the typography;
- three digits after the letter determine the number of the typographic block;
- the fifth character (letter) indicates the row of cliches;
- the sixth character (digit) is the number of the column where the banknote is placed on the cliche.
In Europe, private organizations operate on the same legal basis as state printing houses. They are issued licenses to carry out activities. For example, in Germany there are printing centers both in the east and in the west. In France, similar activities are carried out by government agencies and private organizations.
Functions of the EU bank
Regulation of the euro is a matter of competence of the European Central Bank.
Note 6. The ECB was founded in 1998, in June. The head office is located in Frankfurt. The leadership of the organization includes representatives of all members of the union. The head (director) is elected for a term of 8 years.
Main functions of the ECB:
- creation and implementation of foreign exchange regulation policies within the EU;
- control of monetary reserves of European Union states;
- issue of money;
- approval of rates;
- managing the state of the price range (inflation remains at 2%).
Thus, both the members of the union themselves and the European Central Bank, to which special powers have been delegated, are involved in regulating currency issues in Europe.
Conclusion
You don't have to deal with cash very often. Even when traveling, the lion's share of services and goods is paid for by card. However, it will not be superfluous to know what advantages European money has: this is not only a matter of horizons, but also of financial security. In the end, it is not always possible to make a cashless payment - some small things (for example, like a taxi) are only available if you have banknotes or coins.
In contact with
This spring, the European Central Bank (ECB) introduced a new type of euro banknotes into circulation. These are 100 and 200 euro banknotes from the “Europe” series. The planned circulation is 3 billion units. The design of banknotes has been updated and additional security elements have appeared.
Background
The ECB presented a new banknote design back in September 2018, and printing of the updated euros began 5 years earlier - in 2013, the main financial institution of the European Union introduced a 5 euro banknote. Then 10, 20 and 50 euros were systematically updated. Now it’s time for large denominations – 100 and 200 euros. By the end of this year and next year they will go into circulation en masse.
The updated series comes out without the 500 euro denomination - the ECB stopped issuing the banknote at the end of 2018. The decision is not new; the Board of Governors of the European Bank adopted it back in the spring of 2016. The reason is Europol's concern that the banknote of this denomination facilitates criminal activity. In addition, it has low turnover.
The cessation of issue will not in any way affect the legality of 500 euros - they, as before, are a valid means of payment. Holders can exchange them at any Central Bank of the European zone. There are no time limits for exchange.
What has changed in 100 and 200 euros?
The sketches of the new euro banknotes were developed by the famous German designer Reinhold Gerstetter. The updated design looks brighter and the picture is richer. The size of individual elements has increased, and some details have been added. The denomination has become larger and clearer, making it easier to read from the banknote. The colors have been preserved, but if you look at the denomination numbers (they are located at the bottom left), the color will change depending on the angle of the banknote.
Protection against counterfeiting has become even more advanced, a level higher than the previous one. In addition to the standard elements, a hologram made as a Euro sign was added. It changes as soon as the user turns the bill.
Other security elements:
- a single watermark - before the release of the “Europe” series, it was developed for each banknote individually;
- relief print elements;
- special paper;
- updated denomination design;
- single signature.
Paper
To produce European money, as before, natural cotton fiber is used. Such paper does not glow in ultraviolet rays. A special composition is applied to the outer surface of the updated currency, which repels dust, dirt, moisture and prolongs its use. This composition was not applied to old banknotes.
Relief printing
Upon tactile contact, the updated banknotes appear denser, the texture is rough, with raised lines. If you bend a banknote in half, it will make a slight crunch: the stripes along the side cuts, the main picture, and the denomination numbers can be felt well by your fingers.
Watermark
The watermark on the new euro banknotes is visible from both sides - to do this you need to look at it against sunlight. The technology for manufacturing security elements of this level is based on differences in paper thickness. In the place where the sign is located, it is thinner and more transparent than in the rest of the area. The design developers decided to use a single symbol - a portrait of the ancient Greek goddess Europa.
Denomination design
The numbers indicating the face value of the banknote are printed at the bottom left in emerald ink. There is a hologram stripe located vertically on the right. When the banknote is tilted, the color of the numbers changes - first it becomes rich green, and then dark blue. A portrait of the goddess Europa appears on the vertical hologram. Euro signs move around the denomination numbers - when exposed to direct sunlight, they become brighter.
Signatures
All banknotes bear the signature of the President of the ECB. The old currency bears the signatures of two ex- and current heads. The new “hundredths” and “two hundredths” are signed only by the current president of the ECB. The signature is located at the top left under the EU flag.
Other changes
There are more ECB abbreviations in foreign languages on the new banknotes, which is explained by the accession of new countries to the European Union. Multilingual abbreviations are located on a vertical line on the left edge, next to the EU flag. Updates also affected the map of Europe - it increased to include Cyprus, the Canary Islands, Malta, and certain regions of France.
The name of the currency next to the denomination is now written in three alphabets:
- Cyrillic (EURO);
- Latin(EURO);
- Greek (EYPΩ).
UV-C authentication
The first samples of the updated series were tested in the standard way - in ultraviolet light of the UVA type. New banknotes can be checked with UV-C rays: three-colored notes are chaotically imprinted into the paper of genuine banknotes. They glow in UV-C. The old-style banknotes also had such fibers, but not three-color, but one-color.
Are old bills valid?
The updated design of the European currency is more advanced; the technology for protecting old banknotes was created 17 years ago, is outdated and does not provide adequate protection against counterfeits. The introduction of new banknotes into circulation will help solve this problem. The old-style currency remains a means of payment and is in free circulation.
The ECB management will inform Europeans about the date of their withdrawal from circulation in advance - at least a year in advance. They will have a few more years to exchange the old banknotes for new ones.
May 26, 2016 138476The euro banknote series currently includes seven denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros. Some high denomination banknotes (for example, 500 and 200 euros) are not issued in some countries, but are legal tender everywhere.
Banknotes of each denomination have their own unique color and differ in size. The front side of the banknotes shows windows and gates, and the back side shows bridges. Banknote paper is made from pure cotton fibers and is slightly rough and hard to the touch.
| Series 2002 | |||||
| Image | Denomination | Dimensions | Main color | ||
| Front side | Reverse side | (Euro) | (mm) | ||
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5 | 120×62 | grey | |
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10 | 127×67 | red | |
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20 | 133×72 | blue | |
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50 | 140×77 | orange | |
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100 | 147×82 | green | |
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200 | 153×82 | yellow | |
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500 | 160×82 | violet | |
Also on the banknotes there are...
External signs of euro banknotes
| Series "Europe" | |||
| Image | Denomination | Year of issue | |
| Front side | Reverse side | (Euro) | |
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5 | 2013 |
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10 | 2014 |
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20 | 2015 |
How to distinguish genuine euros from fake ones?
| Security levels of 100 euro banknotes | ||
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| 1. Relief printing | 
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| 2. Water signs | 
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| 3. Addition effect | 
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| 4. Security thread | 
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| 5. Microprinting | 
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| 6. Hologram | 
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| 7. Banknote in ultraviolet light | 
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| 8. Banknote in infrared radiation | 
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| 9. OVI Color Changing Paint | 
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Relief printing. Thanks to a special printing technique, the main design, letters and denomination on the front side of the banknote are convex or thickened.
For visually impaired people along the bottom edge of denomination banknotes 200 euros and along the right edge of the banknote 500 Euro additional signs are placed that are clearly identifiable by touch.
Relief printing on 200 and 500 euro banknotes
Water marks become clearly visible when holding the banknote up to the light.
Addition effect. Scattered characters on both sides in the upper corner of the banknote, when viewed against the light, are combined into denomination numbers.
Security thread(ribbon) in banknote paper is visible when the banknote is held up to light. The printed word is clearly visible on it "euro" and the denomination of the banknote.
Microprinting visible under a magnifying glass. It can also be seen with the naked eye if you look closely. Thus, the letters of the word EURO in Greek on the front side consist of repeating denomination digits. Even the smallest microprint characters must be sharp and clearly legible.
Hologram used on banknotes of 50, 100, 200, 500 euros. The pattern on the hologram changes: from one angle the denomination is visible, from another - a window or gate.
On the back of the banknotes 50, 100, 200 And 500 Euro denomination numbers are marked in the lower right corner optically variable paint, which changes color from purple to olive brown as the viewing angle changes.
When studying banknotes in ultraviolet:
- the paper itself does not glow - it does not react to UV rays
- red, blue and green hairs are visible, chaotically imprinted into the paper
- The EU flag appears green in ultraviolet light, and the stars on it appear orange.
- the signature changes color to green
- The stars and the ring on the front of the banknote glow. On the opposite side, the card, bridge and denomination symbol change color to yellow
Holographic tape applies on banknotes of 5, 10 and 20 - on it the denomination changes to a “€” symbol on a rainbow background.
Microperforations (microscopic holes) in the form of the “€” symbol will be visible on the hologram when held up to light.
Security strip - a vertical mother-of-pearl stripe with a golden sheen, on which, at a certain angle, the denomination numbers and the € symbol are visible. The stripe is located in the middle part of the reverse side of banknotes in denominations 5, 10 and 20 euros.
In terms of denominations, the main degrees of protection are as follows.
| Banknote denomination | Watermark | Security thread | Holographic stripe | Hologram |
| 5 | triumphal arch, copying the image on the front side, and the number “5” | repeating text "5 EURO" runs left of center | 10 mm wide, located on the right side of the front side; depending on the angle of view, you can see the euro symbol, denomination 5 or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek | No |
| 10 | arch copying the image on the front side and the number “10” | repeating text "10 EURO" runs left of center | 10 mm wide, located on the right edge of the front side; depending on your viewing angle, you can see the euro symbol, the denomination 10, or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek | No |
| 20 | Gothic arched window, like on the front of a banknote, and the number "20" | repeating text "20 EURO" runs left of center | 10 mm wide, located on the front right side; depending on the angle of view, you can see the euro symbol, the denomination 20 or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek | No |
| 50 | window, as on the front side, and the number “50” | repeating text "50 EURO" runs left of center | No | right on the front side; depending on the angle of view, you can see the denomination “50”, an architectural fragment (window on the front side of the banknote) or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek |
| 100 | an arch, like on the front of a banknote, and the number “100” | repeating text "100 EURO" runs left of center | No | right on the front side; depending on the angle of view, you can see the number “100”, an architectural fragment (an arch on the front side of the banknote) or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek |
| 200 | gate, as on the front of the banknote, and the number “200” | repeating text "200 EURO" runs left of center | No | right on the front side; depending on your viewing angle, you can see the number “200”, a gate like on the front of a banknote, or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek |
| 500 | facade of the building, like on the front side of a banknote, and the number “500” | repeating text "500 EURO" runs left of center | No | right on the front side; depending on the angle of view, it shows the number “500”, an architectural fragment (the facade on the front side of the banknote) or the word “EURO” in Latin and Greek |
Euro - banknotes of the second series
Watermark and holographic tape of the "Europe" series
Due to Bulgaria's accession to the EU, the new series of euro banknotes bears the inscription "EBPO" as well as the abbreviation "ECB". The emerald denomination of the banknotes themselves appeared on the front side.
Determining the authenticity of euros by serial number and checksum
You can determine for which country the banknote was printed by the first letter in its number:
| Code | A country | Check digit |
| D | Estonia | 4 |
| E | Slovakia | 3 |
| F | Malta | 2 |
| G | Cyprus | 1 |
| H | Slovenia | 9 |
| I | not used | |
| J | Great Britain | 7 |
| K | Sweden | 6 |
| L | Finland | 5 |
| M | Portugal | 4 |
| N | Austria | 3 |
| O | not used | |
| P | Netherlands | 1 |
| Q | not used | |
| R | Luxembourg | 8 |
| S | Italy | 7 |
| T | Ireland | 6 |
| U | France | 5 |
| V | Spain | 4 |
| W | Denmark | 3 |
| X | Germany | 2 |
| Y | Greece | 1 |
| Z | Belgium | 9 |
Interestingly, when you add all the digits of a number, you get a two-digit number. If you repeat the operation until you get a single digit from 1 to 9, it will indicate the country for which the bill was printed.
For example. You have a 100 euro note with the number X10078057694. Add up all the numbers: 1 + 0 + 0 + 7 + 8 + 0 + 5 + 7 + 6 + 9 + 4 = 47; 4 + 7=11; 1 + 1=2. Both the letter X and 2 refer to Germany.
Checksum "8"
If the letter of the serial number is replaced by a number corresponding to its serial number in the English alphabet, then the sum of this number and all digits of the serial number as a result of calculations similar to the previous example will give 8.
For a genuine banknote, the final amount is always 8.
Letters of the English alphabet in order: A - 1, B - 2, C - 3, D - 4, E - 5, F - 6, G - 7, H - 8, I - 9, J - 10, K - 11, L - 12, M - 13, N - 14, O - 15, P - 16, Q - 17, R - 18, S - 19, T - 20, U - 21, V - 22, W - 23, X - 24, Y - 25, Z - 26.
Example. Still the same 100 euro banknote with the number X10078057694. The letter X is the 24th letter in the alphabet. Addition chain: 24+47=71; 7+1=8.