The European Central Bank (ECB) and national central banks share the task of issuing banknotes in euros. The ECB authorises the amount of banknotes to be issued, while national central banks are responsible for actually placing them in circulation.
Banknotes in euros are the only legal tender in the euro area and are also used in internationally. The Eurosystem is responsible for guaranteeing the smooth and efficient supply of banknotes in euros and for maintaining public confidence in the legal tender.