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This page gives general information about the euro, like the euro symbol.
The name of the single currency of all EU Member States belonging to the euro area. The euro was introduced on 1 January 1999, while its name was decided at the European Council in Madrid in December 1995. Banknotes and coins in euro were launched on 1 January 2002. Since 28 February 2002, euro notes and coins have been the only legal tender in the euro area. One euro is divided into one hundred cent.
The graphic symbol for the euro was inspired by the Greek letter epsilon and refers to the first letter of the word "Europe". The parallel lines represent the stability of the euro. It is registered with the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO 10036) for business, financial and commercial purposes. The euro symbol was designed by the Commission services. The final choice from among several proposed designs was made following a qualitative assessment by the general public conducted by a specialised organisation. The early definition of a distinctive symbol for the euro also reflects the vocation of the euro to become one of the world's major currencies.
The euro area encompasses those Member States of the European Union in which the euro has been adopted as the single currency in accordance with the Treaty and in which a single monetary policy is conducted under the responsibility of the decision-making bodies of the ECB (European Central Bank). The euro area currently comprises Belgium, Germany, Greece, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal and Finland. Also known as the eurozone, or colloquially as Euroland.
The currency code EUR has been registered with the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO 4217) and is used for business, financial and commercial purposes.
This page gives general information about the euro, like the euro symbol.
Last update: 19-12-2004
by: Lex Liesemeijer
www.eurocoins.liesemeijer.com
