Denominations
The second series of euro banknotes is called “Europa” because the notes contain a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology. It adds a human touch to the notes and, of course, is the origin of the name of our continent.
The “ages and styles” theme of the first series has been continued in the Europa series but has been given a fresh look and stronger colours by a Berlin-based independent banknote designer, Reinhold Gerstetter. He has created visual elements that are more rounded and bridges that are more three-dimensional. These changes make the notes easy to distinguish from the first series. The Europa series also includes security features that are even more difficult to counterfeit than those of the first series.
| Size | 147 x 77 mm |
| Colour | Green |
| Date of issuance | 28 May 2019 |
Design elements
Initials of the European Central Bank
In this series of banknotes the initials of the European Central Bank are shown in ten linguistic variants instead of five, due to the enlargement of the European Union in 2004, 2007 and 2013 – BCE ECB ЕЦБ EZB EKP EKT ESB EKB BĊE EBC.
“Euro” in different alphabets
The name of the currency has been written in the Cyrillic alphabet (EBPO) since Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007, in addition to the Latin (EURO) and Greek (EYPΩ) alphabets.
Map of Europe
Have you noticed the map of Europe on the back of the Europa series banknotes? It now includes the islands of Malta and Cyprus – two of the countries which have joined the European Union since the launch of the first series.
Architectural style
The €100 banknote shows baroque and rococo-style architecture from 1600 to 1750.
Signatures
Banknotes from the Europa series bear the signature of either former President Mario Draghi or current President Christine Lagarde. Banknotes with either signature are equally valid.
Why is a new series of banknotes needed? Because the notes have to remain secure at all times. Banknote printing technology is constantly evolving and counterfeiters quickly adopt it. The Europa series therefore contains even more sophisticated security features than the first series. They have taken years of research and development to bring to fruition.
Some of the easiest features to identify are shown on this page. For further information go to the security features page and learn how to check all of them using the FEEL, LOOK and TILT method.
Security features
Raised print
Feel the banknote. On the front there are short raised lines on the left and right edges. These lines, as well as the main image, the lettering and the large value numeral, feel thicker.
Portrait watermark
Hold the banknote against the light. An image of Europa, a copy of the main image and the value of the banknote appear on the left.
Portrait window
Look at the banknote against the light. The window in the hologram on the right becomes transparent and reveals a portrait of Europa on both sides of the note.
Emerald number
Tilt the banknote. The shiny number in the bottom-left corner changes colour from emerald green to deep blue and displays an effect of the light that moves up and down. The new €100 and €200 banknotes also show tiny € symbols inside the number.
Portrait hologram
Tilt the banknote. The hologram – the silvery stripe on the right – reveals a portrait of Europa. The stripe also shows a copy of the main image and the value of the banknote.
Satellite hologram
The satellite hologram – a feature unique to the €100 and €200 notes – is at the top of the silvery stripe. When you tilt the banknote, it shows tiny € symbols that move around the number. Those symbols become clearer under direct light.
