Change is coming to the coins and bank notes of the European Union. The so-called euro zone, where a common currency is currently used, comprises 20 of the 27 EU member countries, as well as associated city-states, including Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.
The Maastricht Treaty, through which all EU members are required to adopt the euro and join the common currency union, does not specify a set timetable for countries to join. Denmark is the only EU member allowed exemption from joining the currency union.
Newly designed euro-denominated bank notes are currently being developed; however, the coinage may also see changes. Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Slovakia have stopped using the 1- and 2-cent euro coins. Germany is considering following their example. Each of these countries…