The new 100 and 200 euro banknotes arrive. The ECB has lifted the veil on the new cut which will come into circulation starting from 28 May 2019.
Like the "little sisters" these are also part of the new "Europe" series that the European Central Bank has introduced since 2013.
“We are at the completion of our second series. The euro is a symbol for Europe. In these times in which some leaders have used the concept of sovereignty, I think our banknotes represent it best". These are the words of Yves Mersch, commissioner of the Executive Committee.
"Euro banknotes - added Mersch - are also a good example of how cooperation can work effectively and effectively" in the face of those who would like to return to national currencies. And despite the advance of electronic payments, banknotes "remain largely the most widespread payment instrument" by citizens "and are probably the most inclusive".
Speaking in figures, cash is by far the preferred means of payment in points of sale such as shops, petrol stations and vending machines. In 2016, 79% of all payments in the euro area were made in cash, while only 19% by card. The use of cash is even more widespread for purchases on the street and in markets (90% of all transactions and 81% in terms of value) and in bars and restaurants (90% of all transactions and 76% in terms of value).
The new 100 and 200 notes have the same security features as the 50 note, such as the portrait in the watermark and hologram, and new and updated features that make them harder to forge but easier to check.
In detail, the ECB explains, “in the upper part of the silver stripe, a hologram with a satellite bears a small € symbol which rotates around the number. The € symbol stands out more clearly when exposed to direct light. The silver stripe also features the portrait of Europa, the architectural motif and the large € symbol. Furthermore, the new €100 and €200 banknotes feature an improved emerald number. It appears in all the other denominations of the Europa series, but this more advanced version also shows the € symbol appearing several times within the number”.
From an aesthetic point of view, the new banknotes have different dimensions compared to those of the old series. In fact, both denominations have the same height as the 50 euro note, but the length remains unchanged compared to the first series and proportional to the value of the banknote. The new dimensions mean that the new cut can be handled and processed by the equipment more easily. Not only that, banknotes will also be better placed in the wallet and will last longer, because they are less subject to wear.
