eurobanknote

The euro banknotes are the physical currency used in the euro area. They are issued by the European Central Bank (ECB) in coordination with the national central banks of euro-using countries and are legal tender throughout the euro area.

Current denominations are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 euros. A 500 euro note was part of the original set but was not included in the later Europa series and is no longer produced; while still legal tender, it is rarely used and has been largely withdrawn from circulation in practice.

Design and security features: The notes share a common design across the euro area, with imagery reflecting European architectural styles on the reverse and complementary imagery on the front. The Europa series introduces the portrait of Europa in the watermark and a range of advanced security features, including a hologram, a security thread, microprinting, raised printing, and color-changing elements to deter counterfeiting.

Materials and handling: Banknotes are printed on pure cotton fiber, which gives a distinct texture and durability. Each denomination uses a different size and color to aid recognition, and the value is indicated in multiple places for readability in everyday transactions and by machines.

Circulation and status: The ECB and the national central banks issue and withdraw notes as needed. The notes circulate widely as legal tender across the euro area and can be exchanged at central banks with no time limit. Worn or damaged notes are withdrawn from circulation and replaced as part of regular currency management, while counterfeits are addressed through public awareness and enforcement efforts.