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4.4.2017: Introduction of the new 50 euro banknote of the “Europa” series
03.04.2017
On 4 April, the Banque centrale du Luxembourg (BCL) and the national central banks of the euro area have introduced the new 50 euro banknote, the fourth banknote from the “Europa” series, after the introduction of the 5, 10 and 20 euro banknotes in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
The banknotes of the new series keep the “Ages and styles” design and the dominant colours of denominations from the first series.
Security features
The new 50 euro denomination has been redesigned and includes, as the 20 euro banknote, an innovative security feature in the form of a “portrait window” which is integrated into the hologram. When put against the light, the window becomes transparent and reveals the portrait of princess Europa, a figure from Greek mythology, on both sides of the banknote.
As for the new 5, 10 and 20 euro banknotes, the new 50 euro denomination includes an “emerald number” and a portrait of Europa in the watermark. The emerald number, on the left side of the banknote, changes colours according to the inclination of the banknote, varying from emerald green to deep blue, and produces a light effect moving from top to bottom and from bottom up.
Finally, raised print on the left and right corners of the banknote allows, notably, blind and partially sighted people to easily recognise the banknote. The main pattern, the letters and the large figure, which indicates the value of the banknote, also include a raised effect.
Adaptation of machines and devices
Since the announcement of the introduction of the 50 euro banknotes in July 2016, the BCL has continuously liaised with its partners to recall the necessity of adapting machines and devices which accept, handle and authenticate banknotes. In order to ease the introduction of the new 50 euro banknote on 4 April, the BCL has allowed, since several months already, its partners to borrow the new 50 euro banknote so that they may, since the beginning of the year, proceed to the adaptation and test of their machines and devices.
Legal tender
The 50 euro banknotes from the first series will continue being legal tender during several years. The date from which they will not be legal tender anymore will be communicated to the public in due time. Even after this date, the banknotes of the first series will always be accepted for redemption at the counters of the BCL.
Information material
The new 50 euro banknote and its security features can be consulted on the following dedicated website: www.new-euro-banknotes.eu, or on the website of the BCL: www.bcl.lu.
Since end March, leaflets dedicated to the new 50 euro banknotes are at disposal of the public at retail banks, as well as at the counters of POST Luxembourg.
Information material is also available to the public and shopkeepers at the counters of the BCL’s Numismatic centre located at 43, avenue Monterey (opening hours from 10.30 to the 16.00) and on request by email at the address euro@bcl.lu or by phone at 4774-1.
