The euro turns 20 and continues to grow

The euro was introduced to the world in 1999, though the notes were launched in 2002. It is today the currency of the 343 million citizens of the euro area. It is the second largest reserve currency and the second most traded currency in the foreign exchange market. As of end 2018, with more than €1.2 trillion of banknotes and coins in circulation, the euro has surpassed the U.S. dollar.