Banknotes in Circulation: Counterfeiters Favor Regular Currency Notes Issued by The Federal Bank - Counterfeiters show a predilection for commonly used banknotes from Federal Bank
In the first half of 2025, the Deutsche Bundesbank removed approximately 36,600 counterfeit euro banknotes with a face value of around €2.1 million from circulation in Germany [1][3][5]. This increase in counterfeit banknotes is part of a broader trend observed across Europe.
Sources and Reasons for the Increase
Counterfeit notes are primarily detected through banks, retailers, and payment points who submit suspicious notes to the Bundesbank for verification. The rise in counterfeits could be attributed to counterfeiters exploiting vulnerabilities before the introduction of new security features or changes in public vigilance [3]. The demand and wide circulation of the 50-euro note make it an attractive target for counterfeiters aiming to maximize the spread and acceptance of fake notes [1][3].
The 50-Euro Note: A Popular Target
The 50-euro note is the most frequently counterfeited banknote, accounting for nearly 51% of discovered counterfeits [1]. No counterfeits were detected below 50 cents, indicating a focus on higher denominations.
Prevention Measures
To combat this issue, the Bundesbank offers free training courses and online modules for banks, retailers, and other stakeholders to improve frontline detection skills [1]. Public awareness campaigns remind people to check for key security features on banknotes, such as watermarks, holograms, security threads, and the feel of the paper [1]. Specific guidance is also provided for checking genuine characteristics versus counterfeits, such as visual clarity, edge inscriptions, and magnetic responses [1].
Counterfeit Coins: A Different Story
While not directly related to the €50 note situation, it's worth noting that the number of fake coins increased by 12%, with over 68,400 pieces found [1]. The 2 Euro coin accounted for around 91% of the discovered counterfeits [1].
In summary, the increase in counterfeit 50-euro notes in Germany in early 2025 reflects a general rise in counterfeit euros due to economic and technological factors. The Bundesbank combats this through withdrawal of fakes, education, and training programs to improve detection and prevention among those handling cash frequently [1][3][5]. It is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and familiarize themselves with the security features of euro banknotes and coins to help combat counterfeiting.
[1] Bundesbank. (2025). Counterfeit banknotes and coins: Prevention and detection. Retrieved from https://www.bundesbank.de/en/topics/banknotes-and-coins/counterfeit-banknotes-and-coins/prevention-and-detection-857556
[3] Deutsche Welle. (2025). Counterfeit 50-euro notes on the rise in Germany. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/counterfeit-50-euro-notes-on-the-rise-in-germany/a-57251515
[5] Reuters. (2025). More than 5,500 counterfeit 200-euro notes seized at German border. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-germany-counterfeit/more-than-5500-counterfeit-200-euro-notes-seized-at-german-border-idUSKCN22Q162
- The rise in counterfeit 50-euro notes can be linked to the broader trend of counterfeit euros across Europe, as well as economic and technological factors within the industry.
- The 50-euro note, being the most frequently counterfeited banknote, accounts for nearly 51% of all discovered counterfeits, while no counterfeits were detected below 50 cents.
- To tackle the increasing counterfeit notes, the Deutsche Bundesbank has implemented training courses and online modules for banks, retailers, and other stakeholders, aiming to improve their detection skills.
- Public awareness campaigns also remind people to check for key security features on banknotes, such as watermarks, holograms, security threads, and the feel of the paper, to aid in the prevention of counterfeiting.
- In addition to the 50-euro note issue, the number of fake coins increased by 12%, with the majority of the discovered counterfeits being 2 Euro coins.
- To combat the growing problem of counterfeit banknotes and coins, it's essential for everyone to remain vigilant, familiarize themselves with security features, and actively participate in detection efforts.
