On 1 January 2002 the euro coins came into circulation.

    The eight denominations of coins vary in size, colour and thickness according to their values, which are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent or EUR 1 and EUR 2. One euro is divided into 100 cent.

    Luc Luycx of the Royal Belgian Mint won a European wide competition to design the euro coins. One side of each coin features one of three designs common to all 12 euro area countries showing different maps of Europe surrounded by the 12 stars of the European Union.

    The reverse side of each coin shows individual designs relating to the respective Member State, surrounded by 12 stars (see Country-specific faces, or click on the relevant country’s flag). Euro coins can be used anywhere in the euro area, regardless of their national sides.

    Milled edges have been introduced to make it easier - especially for those with impaired sight - to recognise different values. Sophisticated bi-metal technology has been incorporated into the EUR 1 and EUR 2 coins which, together with lettering around the edge of the EUR 2 coin, prevents counterfeiting.

(European Central Bank)