Counterfeits

The euro is respected as a stable currency, not just in Europe but worldwide. As a result, it receives some unwelcome attention from counterfeiters. Although the security features of the euro make it among the best protected currencies in the world, a small number of counterfeits do get put into circulation.

The actual number of counterfeit banknotes withdrawn from circulation is published every six months on the ECB’s website. It represents an extremely small proportion of the total number of genuine banknotes in circulation and is no cause for concern – you just need to be vigilant

Counterfeit banknotes are sent to each country’s National Analysis Centre. The Estonian Forensic Science Institute (EFSI) conducts expert analyses of counterfeit banknotes and coins in Estonia.

Statistics on registered counterfeits and examples of counterfeits are available on the Estonian Forensic Science Institute’s website

In case of doubt, the authenticity of the banknote can also be verified without special equipment: feel it, look at it and tilt it, check the safety features of the banknote or compare the banknote with an authentic banknote.

 Suspect counterfeit banknotes or coins must be reported to the police, who will subject the banknote or coin to an expert analysis.