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The 100 euro bill is a widely recognized and accepted form of currency in the European Union. It's a key part of the Eurozone's economic system.
The 100 euro bill is a denomination of the Euro, the official currency of the European Union. The Euro was introduced in 1999 as a virtual currency and in 2002 as physical banknotes and coins.
The 100 euro bill features a portrait of Europa, a mythological figure from ancient Greek and Roman mythology.
The Europa portrait on the 100 euro bill is a nod to the European Union's rich cultural heritage, reflecting the continent's diverse history and artistic traditions.
History and Release
The 100 euro bill has a fascinating history. The second series of 100 euro banknotes was released into circulation on the 28th of May 2019.
This release date is significant because it marked the introduction of a new design for the 100 euro bill. The 100-euro banknote was released alongside the 200-euro banknote on the same date.
The Euro banknotes have undergone several updates over the years, with the introduction of new security features and designs to prevent counterfeiting.
Consider reading: Euro Introduction
Physical Characteristics
The new 100 euro note is slightly smaller than its predecessor, measuring 147 mm in width and 77 mm in height.
The security features of the new note are designed to prevent counterfeiting, including physical features that can be seen and features that can only be detected by machines.
You can easily verify the authenticity of a 100 euro note by feeling it, holding it against the light, or using special devices like UV or infrared light. A money counter can also help distinguish real notes from counterfeit ones.
Size of Note
The new 100-euro note is smaller than its predecessor, measuring 147 mm in width and 77 mm in height.
This reduction in size will make the note easier to handle, especially for people with smaller wallets.
The new 100-euro note is also designed to fit better into cash machines, which will be a welcome change for those who use them regularly.
As a result of the new design, over a million cash machines will need to be adapted before the note goes into circulation in May next year.
Design of Note
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The new 100-euro banknote features a unique green color, which is a departure from the previous design. The Europa series includes a portrait of Europa, originating from Greek mythology.
The note includes 10 language variations of the European Central Bank's initials, written in different languages such as Latin, Cyrillic, and Greek. This is a nod to the bank's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
The design also incorporates the name of the currency in various languages, including the Cyrillic alphabet and Greek. This attention to detail showcases the bank's dedication to making the currency accessible to everyone.
The map on the note has been updated to include the islands of Malta and Cyprus, which have joined the European Union since the first series of euro banknotes started being circulated in 2002. This change reflects the evolving landscape of the European Union.
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Security Features
The new 100 euro bill has some amazing security features that make it almost impossible to counterfeit. These features include both physical and machine-detectable elements.
One of the physical features is a shiny number on the bottom of the note that changes color from emerald green to deep blue. This is a clever way to prevent counterfeiting.
The note also has a "satellite" hologram of tiny euro symbols that move around the number when the bill is tilted. This hologram is a great way to add an extra layer of security.
You can even use a magnifying lens to read the minute letters that are written in some parts of the note. These letters are too small to be read with the naked eye, but with a magnifying lens, you can make out the printed letters.
Note Security Features
The new €100 notes have additional security features that ensure they cannot be easily counterfeited.
These security features include both physical features that can be seen and features that can only be detected by machines.
The new €100 notes have a unique combination of security features, making them one of the most secure banknotes in circulation.
These features are designed to prevent counterfeiting and ensure the authenticity of the note.
With the new security features, counterfeiters will have a much harder time producing fake notes that can fool even the most discerning eye.
The €100 note is now more secure than ever, thanks to these advanced security features.
Microprint
Microprint is a clever security feature that's hard to spot with the naked eye. It's a type of minute lettering that's printed in some parts of the notes.
You can use a magnifying lens to make out the printed letters, as it's not possible to read them without some help.
Counterfeit Detection
Detecting counterfeit 100 euro notes requires attention to its security features. Missing features are usually a giveaway.
You can feel the note to check for any irregularities. Hold it against the light to reveal hidden markers. Tilt it to ensure all features are present.
Using special devices like standard UV light or infrared light can also help distinguish real notes from counterfeit ones. A money counter can be a valuable tool in this process.
Check with Magnifying Glass
You can spot microprinting on the 100 Euro note by using a magnifying glass, like on the tiny writing inside the "EYPΩ" (EURO in Greek characters) on the front.
The microprinting is sharp, not blurred, making it easier to detect with a magnifying glass.
This technique can be useful for identifying genuine notes, especially in areas with high counterfeiting activity.
Detecting Counterfeit Banknotes
To detect counterfeit banknotes, it's essential to check for missing security features.
You can use a money counter to distinguish real notes from counterfeit ones.
Holding a note against the light can reveal hidden markers, which is a common technique used to verify authenticity.
Tilting a note can also ensure that all the features are present, giving you a clear indication of its authenticity.
Special devices like standard UV light or infrared light can be used to detect counterfeit notes, making the process much easier.
Missing security features are usually an indication of counterfeit notes, so it's crucial to inspect the note carefully.
Circulation and Management
The 100 euro bill has a unique circulation and management system in place to prevent counterfeiting and ensure its authenticity.
It's made with a combination of paper and cotton, giving it a distinctive texture that's difficult to replicate.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is responsible for managing the production and distribution of euro banknotes, including the 100 euro bill.
To ensure the 100 euro bill is genuine, look for the hologram strip that changes from a euro sign to a 100 when the note is tilted.
Estimated in Circulation
As of June 2023, the estimated number of Europa series 100 euro notes in circulation is about 3,941,802,973 €100 banknotes. This staggering figure gives us an idea of the sheer volume of cash in circulation.
The European Central Bank tracks these numbers, providing valuable insights into the circulation and management of currency.
Central Bank Management
The European Central Bank plays a crucial role in managing the new euro currency. The European Central Bank is responsible for managing the new euro currency, working in conjunction with the European system of central banks.
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The European system of central banks is made up of the European Central Bank and all the national central banks of EU countries. These institutions are responsible for printing and distributing the new bills.
The European Central Bank and the national central banks work together to ensure the smooth circulation of the new euro currency. This collaboration is essential for maintaining the stability and integrity of the euro.
Comparison and Value
The 100 euro bill has undergone some notable changes between its first and second series. The second series, created by Reinhold Gerstetter, boasts improved visual elements that are not only smoother but also more three-dimensional, particularly with the bridges on the notes.
The second series also features a portrait of Europa, which is a significant addition compared to the first series. This new design element adds to the overall aesthetic of the note.
The second series contains additional security features that aid in reducing counterfeiting, making it a more secure option for users. These features, combined with the improved design, make the second series a more valuable and reliable choice.
1 and 2 Series Comparison
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The 1 and 2 series of 100 euro notes have some notable differences. The 2 series features slightly improved visual elements, designed by Reinhold Gerstetter, which are smoother and have more three-dimensional bridges.
One of the main differences between the two series is the inclusion of more European Central Bank acronyms. The 2 series has 10 acronyms in 10 different languages, whereas the 1 series only had 5 variations.
The 2 series, also known as the Europa series, features a portrait of Europa. This is a notable addition to the design of the note.
The Europa series also includes additional security features that help prevent counterfeiting. These features make the 2 series notes more secure and harder to replicate.
Are Old Bills Worthless?
Old bills can be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to their value. The 1 series of the €100 notes are not worthless.
Both the first and second series of the €100 notes are still being used. This means you can still use them for transactions.
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Only new notes will be released by the central banks. This will eventually lead to fewer first-series notes in circulation.
If it's decided that the old notes will no longer be effective, an advance notice will be issued. This gives everyone time to make the necessary exchanges.
The value of the old notes will remain the same and can be exchanged for the same value in new Europa €100 notes.
New Developments
The new €100 and €200 bank notes are smaller than their current versions, making them easier to fit into wallets and handle by machines.
This size change will also result in less wear and tear on the notes, which is a plus.
The new notes will feature an updated map of Europe on the back, including the islands of Malta and Cyprus, which have joined the European Union since the first series of euro bank notes started being circulated in 2002.
More than a million cash machines will need to be adapted before the new notes enter circulation on 28 May in the 19 countries that use the shared currency.
The new notes have several new security features, including a "satellite" hologram of tiny euro symbols that move around the number when the bill is tilted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 100-euro note still valid?
Yes, the 100-euro note is still a valid denomination of euro banknotes and is accepted as legal tender throughout the euro area.
What is the difference between the old and new 100-euro bill?
The new 100-euro bill is slightly shorter than the old one, measuring 77mm in height compared to 82mm. The width remains the same at 147mm.
Are there two types of 100 euro notes?
Yes, there are two types of €100 notes, one from the 1st series and one from the 2nd series. The 2nd series €100 note is a different size than the 1st series note, making it more comfortable to use.
Do shops accept 100 euro notes?
Shops are not required to accept 100 euro notes, according to the Central Bank. Retailers have the right to decide whether to accept these notes or not.
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