The idea of a souvenir currency worth zero euro was invented by French entrepreneur Richard Faille in 2015. Since then, the concept has evolved into a successful business around the euro area. The zero euro banknotes bearing national landmark sites are sold on tourists spots in France, Belgium, and Germany.
The smart entrepreneur obtained permission from the European Central Bank to produce souvenir banknotes. Interestingly, such bills are printed on special paper by means of the same technology as the ECB uses to print genuine euros. Likewise, souvenir banknotes bear safety features including watermarks and holograms. The tourist currency is sold for €2.5 apiece.
Judging by the buoyant demand from travelers, the project has a bright future. Besides, numismatists acknowledge the artistic merit of the banknotes’ design. So, investing small money in the tourist currency, its value could rise notably in the future. Meanwhile, Richard Faille has plans to expand his business in Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. Among images on the souvenir money, there are German Navy barque Gorch Fock II, the Atomium of Brussels, the Lion monument in Waterloo, the Palace in Versailles, and other famous places.
