How to Read Euros: A Look at Banknotes and Coins
Learn to identify genuine Euro banknotes and coins by understanding their key features and designs.
The euro serves as the official currency for twenty member states of the European Union, collectively known as the Eurozone. Introduced as an accounting currency in 1999 and then as physical banknotes and coins in 2002, the euro facilitates economic integration and stability across Europe. It replaced various national currencies, simplifying cross-border transactions and promoting trade within the region.
Euro Banknote Denominations and Design
Euro banknotes are available in seven denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros. Each denomination features a distinct color and size, with the size increasing with the value.
The design theme for all euro banknotes centers on “ages and styles” of European architecture, specifically featuring windows or gateways on the front and bridges on the back. These architectural elements are stylized illustrations, not representations of actual existing structures, symbolizing openness, cooperation, and communication within Europe and with the rest of the world. The 5 euro note depicts Classical architecture, the 10 euro Romanesque, the 20 euro Gothic, the 50 euro Renaissance, the 100 euro Baroque and Rococo, the 200 euro 19th-century iron and glass architecture, and the 500 euro Modern 20th-century architecture.
While the 500 euro banknote remains legal tender, its production and issuance were discontinued by the European Central Bank (ECB) around the end of 2018 due to concerns about its potential use in illicit activities. Existing 500 euro notes can still be used for payments and exchanged at national central banks within the Eurosystem.
Euro Banknote Security Features
Authenticating euro banknotes involves a simple “feel, look, and tilt” method, as they incorporate several advanced security features. The paper itself, made of pure cotton fiber, feels crisp and firm, unlike ordinary paper.
When feeling the banknote, one should notice raised print (intaglio printing) on the main image, the lettering, and the large denomination number on the front. This tactile feature helps both the public and visually impaired individuals identify genuine notes. Along the left and right edges of newer series banknotes, short raised lines can also be felt.
Looking at the banknote against light reveals several features. A watermark, which can be a portrait of Europa, an architectural motif, or the denomination number, becomes visible. The security thread appears as a dark line embedded within the paper, often displaying the euro symbol and the banknote’s value in tiny lettering.
Tilting the banknote activates optically variable features. The hologram, which appears as a silvery stripe or patch, changes its image and color, often revealing the portrait of Europa, the architectural motif, or the denomination number. An emerald number, a shiny numeral, displays an effect of light moving up and down while changing color from emerald green to deep blue.
Other security elements include microprinting, which consists of tiny letters or designs visible only under magnification. Additionally, features that react to ultraviolet (UV) light are present, such as stars in the EU flag and other areas glowing with specific colors.
Euro Coin Denominations and Features
Euro coins are issued in eight denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euro coins. Each coin denomination has a common side and a national side. The common side always depicts a geographical representation of Europe, symbolizing the unity of the continent.
The design of the common side has evolved. Earlier series showed a map of the 15 European Union member states, while later series feature a broader map of Europe that includes countries outside the EU.
The national side, unique to each issuing country, can feature various designs, such as national symbols, historical figures, or landmarks. Despite these national variations, all euro coins are legal tender throughout the entire Eurozone, meaning a coin issued in one country can be used for transactions in any other Eurozone member state.