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 | 120 x 62 mm |
| Colour | Grey |
| Date of issuance | 2 May 2013 |
Design elements
Initials of the European Central Bank
In this series of banknotes the initials of the European Central Bank are shown in nine linguistic variants instead of five, due to the enlargement of the European Union in 2004 and 2007 – BCE ECB ЕЦБ EZB EKP EKT 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 countries which joined the European Union after the launch of the first series.
Architectural style
The €5 banknote shows classical-style (Greek and Roman) architecture from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD.
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.
