Euro Banknotes and Coins Enter Circulation

Physical euro banknotes and coins were introduced simultaneously in twelve countries on January 1, 2002 — the largest currency changeover in history. Over 300 million citizens replaced their national currencies (Deutsche Mark, French franc, Italian lira, etc.) within a two-month transition period. The old national currencies ceased to be legal tender by February 28, 2002. The changeover was logistically complex but largely smooth.