Goodbye old euro banknotes: these denominations are being retired in the Netherlands – here’s how to exchange them

December 1, 2025 by Luka

Starting in 2025, the rules for euro banknotes in the Netherlands will change. Which banknotes will be retired and how can you get your money back? We explain, including tips for damaged ones.

Despite the popularity of apps like Tikkie and contactless payments, cash remains an important means of payment in the Netherlands. According to recent reports from De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), many Dutch people still use coins and banknotes daily. But over time, they wear out, become damaged, or are even declared invalid.

In such cases, you can exchange them at a bank or the DNB. Sometimes, however, banknotes are permanently withdrawn from circulation, for example, if they are too worn or involved in theft. With the introduction of new euro banknote series in 2025, it’s wise to take action now. Below, you can read everything you need to know.

Which banknotes are being retired in the Netherlands?

The European Central Bank (ECB) and DNB (the Dutch Central Bank) have announced that old series of euro banknotes will be gradually replaced. Specifically for 2025: old 50-euro banknotes (from the first series) will no longer be accepted in regular circulation from a certain date, although you can still exchange them at the DNB. This also applies to other denominations such as 10, 20, and 100 euros if they are damaged or from older series.

Why? Banknotes can be damaged by anti-theft systems, such as ink stains or adhesives that activate if stolen during transport. DNB warns: if a banknote has discolored stains (possibly from washed ink), inscriptions, or alterations, it is often withdrawn from circulation.

Tips from DNB to prevent problems:

Refuse discolored or stained banknotes, as they may have been washed to hide traces of theft.

Do not accept banknotes with inscriptions, tears, or other alterations.

Do you have such a banknote? Take it immediately to a bank branch or the DNB (Dutch Central Bank) to have it assessed and removed from circulation.

Important: If the stain turns out to be from an anti-theft device, you may not receive compensation unless you can prove you were not involved. This is especially true for banknotes that were involved in theft – only the victim can file a claim.

How do you exchange damaged or old banknotes in the Netherlands?

The European Central Bank (ECB) and DNB have announced that old series of euro banknotes will be gradually replaced.

The procedure is simple, but there are rules. According to DNB, you can exchange stained, dirty, written on, or torn banknotes for new ones of the same value, provided they are recognized as genuine.

Step by step:

Go to a bank or DNB office: Take the banknote to your own bank or a DNB location in Amsterdam or elsewhere. For larger amounts, an appointment is recommended.

Assessment: The bank checks whether the banknote is genuine and whether the damage was accidental. They look for evidence of good faith – so be honest about how you obtained it.

Exchange or refusal: If there are indications of intentional damage (e.g., theft), the banknote will be confiscated without compensation. Otherwise, you will receive a new banknote or the amount will be deposited into your account.

An exception applies to old series from 2025, such as the first 50-euro banknotes: you can still exchange them at the DNB for years to come, even if shops no longer accept them. Check the DNB website for exact dates and locations.

Which banknotes and coins remain valid?

Not everything will change. The ECB confirms that all current coins will remain in circulation: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, plus 1 and 2 euros (including commemorative coins).

The valid banknote denominations are: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros. New series with enhanced security are gradually coming into circulation, but old ones remain valid for a while – until the deadline.

Do you still have stacks of old banknotes at home? Don’t wait too long to exchange them, especially with the changes in 2025. For more information, visit the DNB or ECB website. This way, you can prevent your money from becoming worthless!