Framework for the detection of counterfeits and fitness sorting of euro banknotes by credit institutions and professional cash handlers

The Eurosystem’s terms of reference for the detection of counterfeits and fitness sorting of euro banknotes by credit institutions and other professional cash handlers have been published today in English on the ECB’s website. This document will be published in the other official Community languages in February 2005.

The new terms of reference replace those relating to the use of cash-recycling machines and cash-in machines which were adopted by the Governing Council on 18 April 2002.

The Eurosystem national central banks will implement the terms of reference vis-à-vis credit institutions and other professional cash handlers by 2006 at the latest.