Obverse: The obverse of the banknote features Trakai Island Castle, one of Lithuania's most famous historic fortresses, situated on an island in Lake Galvė. The upper left corner bears the city name "TRAKAI" alongside the European Union flag. The "0" denomination is displayed on the left, while the "EURO SOUVENIR" logo appears at the bottom.
Reverse: The reverse of the banknote depicts architectural landmarks from various European cities.
About the banknote: This is a 0 Euro souvenir banknote dedicated to one of Lithuania's most visited historical and cultural landmarks – Trakai Island Castle. Built in the 14th century by the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, this Gothic castle is the only island castle in Eastern Europe and one of the country's most important symbols of Lithuanian statehood. The banknote is printed on the same cotton paper and incorporates the same security features as genuine euro banknotes, including watermarks, a security thread, and other anti-counterfeiting elements. It is an excellent souvenir commemorating Trakai's history and Lithuania's cultural heritage, as well as a valuable collectible.
History of the 0 Euro banknotes: In 2015, Richard Faille, creator of the popular French souvenir banknotes, introduced the concept of the 0 Euro souvenir banknote to promote tourism. In the same year, the European Central Bank (ECB) approved the issue of these souvenir banknotes. They are printed on the same paper and include the same security features as genuine euro banknotes, but carry a denomination of "0 Euro" and are not legal tender. These souvenir banknotes quickly became highly popular among collectors and tourists as unique keepsakes. They are produced to special order in a private printing facility authorised by the European Central Bank. The reverse of every 0 Euro banknote is identical and depicts famous European landmarks and works of art: the Brandenburg Gate, Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, the Sagrada Família, Manneken Pis, and the Mona Lisa.
