Check your euros: some banknotes will be withdrawn from circulation and become invalid.

The ECB is preparing an update of euro banknotes

The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing a large-scale update of euro banknotes, which has sparked active discussions on social media. A new series of euro banknotes is expected to appear in 2026 with updated designs. Instead of architectural landmarks on the banknotes, motifs of nature, culture, and European values will be depicted.

However, special attention is drawn to the possible change in the nominal series. The denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 euros will remain in circulation. The fate of the 200 euro note remains uncertain, while the 500 euro banknote has already been withdrawn from circulation.

In 2019, the issuance of the 500 euro banknote was stopped, and subsequently, it was withdrawn from circulation due to suspicions of illegal operations and money laundering. Financial regulators believe that large denominations facilitate the transportation of large amounts of cash. It is likely that the 200 euro note will share the fate of the 500 euro note and disappear from circulation with the introduction of the new series.

Owners of 200 euro notes need not worry: they will be gradually withdrawn. Just like with the 500 euro notes, they can be exchanged at banks. Even after being withdrawn from circulation, these banknotes will remain a means of payment for a certain period.

However, some Europeans are already exchanging large denominations for smaller ones to avoid possible problems in the future.

Earlier in Poland, reports were made about plans regarding the future of the złoty and the possible transition of the country to the euro.