FRANKFURT: The European Central Bank announced that the new 10-euro banknote will start circulating from Tuesday.

The ECB is gradually phasing in new banknotes to replace those in circulation since the euro became a physical currency in January 2002.

It started with new five-euro banknotes in May 2013 and new 10-euro notes are being introduced from September 23.

Also read: ECB unveils 10-euro banknotes

To mark the launch, the ECB uploaded public information ads in 23 different languages on the YouTube platform and also a gallery of photos on the social media site Flickr. In addition, the ECB used its account on the micro-blogging Twitter site, offering followers a chance to win an iPad by posting a “selfie” with a new 10-euro note.

Like the new five-euro note, the new 10-euro note has enhanced security features. Its hologram and watermark include a portrait of Europa, a figure from Greek mythology. It also has an “emerald number”, which when tilted changes colour from emerald green to deep blue.

The 10-euro banknotes of the first series will continue to be issued in order to use up stocks. They will circulate alongside the Europa series 10-euro notes before being phased out later on and eventually ceasing to be legal tender.

Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2014