Euro banknotes and coins replaced escudos as legal tender from 28 February 2002. The Bank of Portugal (Banco de Portugal) will receive and pay out the face value of escudo banknotes for a period of 20 years.
Euro Banknotes
On the front of the banknotes, windows and gateways symbolise the European spirit of openness and co-operation. The 12 stars of the European Union represent the dynamism and harmony between European nations. To complement these designs, the reverse of each banknote features a bridge. The bridges symbolise the close co-operation and communication between Europe and the world.
Euro Coins
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. 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. Euro coins can be used anywhere in the euro area, regardless of their national sides.