Across Europe, the reverse (or 'tail') of all Euro coins is identical (the side showing the value) but the 'head' side has designs specific to a country. French coins show the date of minting, the letters RF for 'Republique Francaise' and various traditional designs. Euro banknotes are not country-specific - identical throughout Europe, they carry generic building designs and a map of Europe. Notes are available in 5,10,20,50,100,200 and 500 Euro denominations, and their size corresponds to their value, so the highest value notes are largest.

NOTE - 'monnaie' is the French word for currency or change (NOT 'change', which means 'exchange'). It is worth bringing some cash with you when you first arrive in France, especially smaller value notes, as these are more likely to be accepted for everyday items like newspapers or on public transport.

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