02/04/2013

The Europa series – the second series of euro banknotes

A new euro banknotes series will be launched on 2 May 2013, through the circulation of the €5 banknote which incorporates enhanced security features drawing on advances in banknote security and technology. This series is called the “Europa” series and shows a portrait of the Greek mythological figure Europa. This portrait was chosen because it has a clear association with the continent of Europe and also adds a human touch to the banknotes.

The introduction of this new series is part of the on-going development of euro banknotes to make them even more secure. The European Central Bank and the national central banks make every effort to safeguard the integrity of the euro banknotes by regularly upgrading and improving their security features.

The Europa series has the same “ages and styles” design and dominant colours as the first series. The new banknotes are to be introduced gradually over several years, in ascending order and starting with the new €5 banknote as of 2 May 2013. The denominations remain unchanged: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500.

The new €5 banknote includes some new and enhanced security features. The watermark and hologram both display the portrait of Europa. The eye-catching “emerald number” changes colour from emerald green to deep blue and displays an effect of the light that moves up and down. Short raised lines on the left and right edges of the banknote make it easier to identify the banknote, especially for visually impaired people. They are easy to check using the “FEEL, LOOK, TILT” method.

The first series will initially circulate alongside the new banknotes, but gradually will be withdrawn from circulation. The euro banknotes of the first series will remain legal tender.

Under the provisions of the Central Bank of Malta Act (Cap.204), the Bank, as the competent authority for the circulation of euro banknotes, has had various meetings with the banking, business and retail sectors to inform them about the features of the new banknote. The Bank has taken all possible measures to give cash handlers an opportunity to learn about the new banknotes in good time and to ensure that the launch of the Europa series goes smoothly. It has also drawn attention to the various cash machines currently in use. In this regard, it would like to emphasise the importance of upgrading cash machines to handle the new €5 banknotes in advance of the 2 May 2013 launching date.

Further information is available from the website www.newfaceoftheeuro.eu. This website includes the “Euro Cash Academy”, a learning module which takes a playful approach to the new €5 and other euro banknotes. The Central Bank of Malta has also set up a helpline to assist the general public – 2550 6018. More information is available on the Bank’s website www.centralbankmalta.org.

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