Umlaufmünzen

Umlaufmünzen are coins that are produced and intended for everyday use in the monetary system. They function as legal tender and are designed for regular transactions, in contrast to commemorative, special, or bullion coins. Umlaufmünzen are minted in standard denominations, issued in large quantities, and circulate until they become worn or are withdrawn from circulation.

In the euro area, Umlaufmünzen include the coins with values of 1 cent, 2 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent, 50 cent, and 1 euro, as well as 2 euro coins. They are produced by the national mints of the member states, while the euro’s principal rules are set by the European Central Bank and national authorities handle coin issuance and distribution. The common side of euro coins shows the value, while the national sides carry country-specific designs. The coins are designed to be interoperable across the whole monetary area.

Material, design, and wear are typical considerations for Umlaufmünzen. The smaller denominations commonly use copper-nickel or nickel-brass alloys, while 1- and 2-euro coins are bimetallic. Circulation coins are manufactured to withstand frequent handling and long-term use, with wear over time requiring replacement. Some issues are redesigned or updated, but their status as legal tender generally remains in force during the redesign period.

Distinct from Umlaufmünzen are Gedenkmünzen or Sonderprägungen, which may be issued as legal tender but are primarily produced for collectors or commemorative purposes and are often sold at a premium or limited mintage. In Germany, Umlaufmünzen are issued under the authority of the central banking system; Deutsche Bundesbank and other national banks manage circulation and withdrawal, while Deutsche Mark coins ceased to be legal tender after the euro introduction.