Decision (EU) 2020/2090 of the European Central Bank
of 4 December 2020
amending Decision ECB/2013/10 on the denominations, specifications, reproduction, exchange and withdrawal of euro banknotes (ECB/2020/60)
THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 128(1) thereof,
Having regard to the Statute of the European System of Central Banks and of the European Central Bank, and in particular Article 16 thereof,
Whereas:
(1)
There has been an increase in the number of reproductions of euro banknotes withdrawn from circulation which the general public might risk mistaking for genuine euro banknotes, despite the fact that some of these reproductions bear small or not easily detectable indications that they are ‘copies’, ‘not legal tender’ or should ‘be used only for movies or props’, as they have the optical appearance of euro banknotes and imitate certain banknote security features. These reproductions are mainly offered and purchased via online market places or websites. Reproductions which the general public might mistake for genuine banknotes are unlawful pursuant to Decision ECB/2013/101. It is therefore important to enact measures to reduce and eventually stop their further dissemination. In particular, a clearer prohibition of unlawful activities increases legal certainty. At the same time, it is important to have the possibility to exempt activities regarding certain reproductions, if the Eurosystem deems that the general public cannot mistake them for genuine euro banknotes.
(2)
Therefore, Decision ECB/2013/10 should be amended accordingly,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION: