The Bank of Portugal published its annual information on counterfeit euro banknotes withdrawn from circulation in Portugal, reporting 8,839 counterfeits seized in 2025, a 20% decrease from 2024 and representing 2% of total seizures in the euro area and third countries. All denominations declined except the €50 banknote. The most seized denominations were €20 (2,861) and €50 (3,327), together accounting for 70% of counterfeits detected in Portugal. Across the euro area and third countries, counterfeiting remained low relative to the more than 31 billion euro banknotes in circulation, with 2025 corresponding to 14 counterfeits per million genuine banknotes, described as among the lowest levels since the euro’s launch.
Bank of Portugal 2026-02-27
Bank of Portugal reports 20% drop in counterfeit euro banknotes withdrawn in 2025 while €50 notes rise
The Bank of Portugal reported a 20% decrease in counterfeit euro banknotes seized in 2025, totaling 8,839, which represents 2% of total seizures in the euro area and third countries. The €20 and €50 denominations were the most counterfeited, comprising 70% of detections in Portugal. Counterfeiting remains low, with 14 counterfeits per million genuine banknotes in circulation, one of the lowest levels since the euro's introduction.