Banknotes
There are seven different denominations of euro banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500. The first series of notes is gradually being replaced by the Europa series.
All the notes are legal tender throughout the euro area.
The new €50
The new €50 was introduced in the 19 countries of the euro area on 4 April 2017. It is the fourth banknote in the Europa series and is now circulating alongside the new €5, €10 and €20.
Footage for TV stations is available upon request: media@ecb.europa.eu
- 4 April 2017
The new €50 banknote is introduced in the euro area.
- 5 July 2016
The €50 banknote of the Europa series is unveiled.
- 25 November 2015
- The new €20 banknote is introduced in the euro area.
- 24 February 2015
- The €20 banknote of the Europa series is unveiled.
- 1 January 2015
- Lithuania adopts the euro.
- 23 September 2014
- The new €10 banknote is introduced in the euro area.
- 13 January 2014
- The €10 banknote of the Europa series is unveiled.
- 1 January 2014
- Latvia adopts the euro.
- 2 May 2013 ^
- The new €5 banknote is introduced.
- 10 January 2013
- The €5 banknote of the Europa series is unveiled.
- 8 November 2012
- The ECB announces the introduction of a second series of euro banknotes, named the Europa series, starting with the €5 banknote, and unveils images of three new security features.
- 1 January 2011
- Estonia adopts the euro.
- 1 January 2009
- Slovakia adopts the euro.
- 1 January 2008
- Cyprus and Malta adopt the euro.
- 1 January 2007
- Slovenia adopts the euro.
- 1 January 2002
- Euro banknotes and coins are introduced in 12 EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.
Banknote denominations
Take a look at the first series and some of the Europa series of banknotes. Each denomination has its own distinctive colour as well as an image of an architectural style, ranging from classical through to 20th century.
Online survey on the quality of euro banknotes
Your feedback is essential to make sure that the euro banknotes in circulation are of the best possible quality. Participate in this short online survey and tell us what you think about the quality of your banknotes!
Publications
Leaflets, brochures, posters and other materials are available online for the public and for cash professionals. Printed copies may be available in certain cases.
Banknote security
Euro banknotes include a number of security features. Just feel them, look at them and tilt them.