Find out how to collect the current European currency and how each Euro reflects the character of the country you are visiting.
Since January 1, 2002, when 12 European Union nations formally converted to the new euro, the mathematical side of life has been easier for the family traveler. As of 2009, the Euro, written €, is used by 16 of the 27 members of the European Union (EU) or Eurozone. Another five countries use it unofficially.
Easier, because many banks now issue collectible ‘euro packs’ with the eight euro coins, in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cent and 1 and 2 euro (the official plural of cent and euro is the same as singular.)
Note that coins are the same on one side, and illustrate a symbol of each of their mother countries on the other side, so you’ll need to get several sets to complete your collection!
If you really want to invest in your children’s future, you can also save the seven Euro notes (identical in each country) in these denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euro. Currently, one euro is worth US$.88850.
This beautiful currency, illustrated with each EU member country’s landmarks, is an educational and fun collecting game for kids. Get your kids interested in the euro with some more fun online games.
For more information and current conversion rates from other currencies, visit www.europa.eu.int/euro. To print out a handy foreign currency calculator, visit www.oanda.com
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