Our know-how
Mastery of fiduciary security features
Banknotes incorporate multiple security features—watermarks, security threads, fiduciary fibers, holographic strips, and iridescent printing—to protect them against counterfeiting. At EUROPAFI, we design and integrate these elements directly into the fiduciary paper, demonstrating our unique know-how and recognized expertise in serving central banks.
What is a watermark on a banknote ?
The watermark, visible when held up to the light, is a key feature for detecting counterfeit euro banknotes or any other currency, and for securing your transactions. EUROPAFI has mastered the most advanced watermark techniques, such as :
Multitone watermark
Multitone watermarks are a cutting-edge security technology, integrated directly into the banknote paper during manufacture. Thanks to a round shape specially designed for each watermark by our mould workshop, this technique makes it possible to create photorealistic images in shades of grey, visible through transparency, without the use of ink or printing.
Why is this essential for banknotes ?
- Unrivalled anti-counterfeiting protection : Complex raised print and depth effects are virtually impossible to reproduce by conventional means.
- Adopted by central banks around the world : This watermark boost public confidence and guarantees the authencit of banknotes.
- Refined aesthetic integration : Allows portraits, national symbols or heritage elements to be represented with exceptional artistic finesse.
- Built-in durability : As an integral part of the paper structure, it resists wear and tear and external damage without deterioration.
The watermark is not just a security feature: it is a signature of technological excellence, national identity and trust. For banknote issuers, it is the ultimate standard in paper-based banknote protection.
Electrotype watermarks – Precision in the name of value
Electrotype watermarks bring banknote designs to life with striking clarity and purpose. Designed to highlight denominations or key graphic elements, they reveal sharp numbers or characters when viewed in the light – instantly reinforcing the authenticity and value of the banknote.
Integrated directly during the paper manufacturing process, these watermarks are created by precisely reducing the thickness of the paper, generating ultra-clear areas that accentuate visibility and detail. The result? A perfect fusion of security and aesthetics, as elegant as it is effective.
Pixel watermark – When security meets creativity
Pixel technology revolutionises multitone watermarks. Thanks to a striking contrast between a light background and a matrix of dark dots – regular or irregular – it creates deep images, rich in perspective and detail. The light background can be customised to reflect the main watermark pattern, offering harmonious and distinctive visual integration.
- Total freedom for our designers: Technology that unleashes creativity without compromising security..
- Resistance to counterfeiting: The complexity of the dot structure and raised print makes any attempt at reproduction virtually impossible.
The Pixel watermark is not just a barrier against fraud — it is a tool for artistic expression in the name of banknote innovation.
Security threads - Technology at the heart of the banknote
Security threads embody discreet but impressive engineering. Integrated into the very paper of the banknote, they are more than just technical elements: they are the silent sentinels of authenticity. Their presence, sometimes subtle, sometimes spectacular, combines aesthetics and complexity to deter any attempt at counterfeiting. Two variants dominate this technology, each with its own personality.
Embedded thread – Absolute discretion
Invisible to the naked eye, except when held up to the light, the embedded thread is a masterpiece of subtlety. It blends into the structure of the banknote like a well-kept secret.
- Integrated security: Microtext, magnetic ink, UV elements... everything is encapsulated in the paper fibre.
- Visual impact: Minimalist and refined, it is ideal for understated designs that rely on invisible but omnipresent security.
- Counterfeiting: Reproduction requires state-of-the-art industrial equipment and rare technical expertise. A silent but impenetrable barrier.
Window thread – Technology that plays with light
In contrast, window thread is proudly displayed. It appears and disappears depending on the viewing angle, creating immediate visual interaction with the public.
- Enhanced security : Changing colours, holographic effects, animated graphics... it combines visual and tactile elements for intuitive verification.
- Visual impact : Bold and dynamic, it catches the eye and becomes an instant marker of authenticity.
- Counterfeiting : Its complex manufacturing process and visible elements make it a nightmare for counterfeiters. A demonstration of technological prowess.
Security fibres – Tiny details, maximum protection
Security fibres are small in size but have a huge impact. Integrated directly into the banknote paper, these microscopic filaments – visible to the naked eye or under UV light – create a unique signature for each denomination. Multicoloured, fluorescent or reactive to certain wavelengths, they provide a two-fold defence: easy for the public to check, but extremely difficult for counterfeiters to imitate. Security fibres are not just a technical detail: they are woven into the very fabric of the trust that banknotes inspire.
Holographic strip - combining prestige and security
It is no coincidence that holographic strips are popular worldwide. Their striking visual effects instantly capture attention, giving banknotes a touch of modernity and sophistication. But their appeal is not limited to aesthetics: they are also a formidable security feature. Applied during the security process, they require cutting-edge technology and extreme precision, making them virtually impossible to reproduce. With holographic strips, each banknote becomes both a work of art and a technological fortress.
Iridescent printing – When light becomes security
Iridescent printing transforms banknote paper into a living surface that reacts to light. Applied on the security machine, this special ink produces subtle metallic reflections that change when tilting, creating an immediate visual interaction. But behind this elegance lies cutting-edge technology: difficult to reproduce, it requires specific inks and precise expertise. It also allows patterns or numbers to be incorporated that appear fleetingly, enhancing security while enhancing the design of the banknote. It is a luminous signature, both aesthetic and dissuasive.
