The European Central Bank (ECB) and
the national central banks (NCBs) of the Eurosystem are to
introduce a second series of euro banknotes. Called the "Europa"
series, it will include a portrait of Europa a figure from
Greek mythology and the origin of the name of our continent in
the watermark and the hologram. The new banknotes will be
introduced gradually over several years, starting with the 5
banknote in May 2013.
The Europa series has benefited
from advances in banknote technology since the first series was
introduced over ten years ago. Its security features have been
enhanced, which will help to make the banknotes even more secure.
Three new features the portrait watermark, portrait hologram
and emerald number have been unveiled today.
The new banknotes are an evolution.
Like the first series, they will have the "ages and styles"
design and the same dominant colours, but they have been
modified to accommodate the enhanced security features. They
will be easy to distinguish from the first series. The Europa
series will have the same denominations as its predecessor, i.e.
5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500, and they will be
introduced in ascending order. Thus, the new 10 banknote will
follow the 5.
The first series will initially
circulate alongside the new banknotes, but will gradually be
withdrawn and eventually cease to be legal tender. The date when
this occurs will be announced well in advance. However, the
banknotes of the first series will retain their value
indefinitely and can be exchanged at the Eurosystem NCBs at any
time.
The Europa series 5 banknote will
be unveiled in full on 10 January 2013 and credit institutions
will start to issue the new notes over the counter or via cash
dispensers in May next year. In order to raise public awareness
of the Europa series, the ECB and the NCBs of the Eurosystem.