Euro - Security Features

Information

On 1 January 2002, the seven Euro banknotes (5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500) were introduced in 12 member states of the European Union. Modern reproduction technology can reproduce fairly good copies of any printed picture, so banknotes need to be very secure to protect against counterfeiting. There are a number of advanced security features on Euro banknotes that will make them instantly recognisable to the public. Information has also been included below regarding the various Euro coins that are now in circulation in 16 member states.

Banknotes

Paper

All Euro banknotes are printed on pure cotton paper that contains fluorescent fibres and a multitone watermark. Some sections on the front of the banknotes are printed in relief so that the notes can be easily identified by all citizens, including the visually impaired.

Watermarks:

Euro banknotes contain a watermark that is visible when held up to the light. This watermark shows a picture and displays the value of the banknote.

Security Thread:

Euro banknotes contain a security thread. This will show up as a dark line, visible when you hold the note up to the light.

Hologram Foil Stripes/Hologram Foil Patches

Low value notes (5, 10 and 20 euro) have a hologram foil stripe shown on the front right-hand side of the note. When the banknote is tilted, the euro symbol and the value of the banknote appear.

Higher value notes (50, 100, 200 and 500 euro) have a hologram foil patch shown on the front right hand side of the note. When the banknote is tilted, an image of the architectural motif and the value of the banknote appear.

Iridescent Stripe

Low value notes (5, 10 and 20 Euro) have an iridescent stripe shown on the reverse side of the banknote. When the banknote is tilted under a bright light, the iridescent stripe shines and slightly changes colour.

Colour-shifting Ink

Higher value notes (50, 100, 200 and 500 Euro) have a colour-shifting ink feature. When the banknote is tilted, the value numerals change colour from purple to olive green or brown

Coins

Euro coins come in eight denominations (1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent or 1, 2 euro coins). One euro is divided into 100 cent. The coins vary in size, colour and thickness according to their values.

One side of each coin features one of three designs common to all 13 euro countries showing different maps of Europe, surrounded by the 12 stars of the European Union.

The reverse side of each coin shows an individual design relating to each member state (i.e., Ireland) surrounded by 12 stars. Euro coins can be used anywhere in any of the 16 euro countries.

The edge of each coin has been milled (specially marked), which will make it easier to recognise different values. This is very important for people with visual impairment. Special bi-metal technology has been incorporated into the larger 1 and 2 euro coins, which will prevent counterfeiting.