Danger! Old Danish crowns soon invalid - this is how you act cleverly!

Danger! Old Danish crowns soon invalid - this is how you act cleverly!

Kopenhagen, Dänemark - In Denmark, important changes for banknotes are imminent. From May 31, 2025, old crown banknotes become invalid, which could have significant effects for many citizens and tourists. Pressure series from 1997 and the 1,000 crown notes, which have been in circulation since 2009, are particularly affected. The equivalent of 1,000 crowns corresponds to around 135 euros, which is important for travelers.

According to information from NDR are still old banknotes with a total value of around 350 million euros in circulation that Can be exchanged in 2026. However, the exchange is only possible at special stations in Copenhagen, Aarhus and Odense. As a rule, German banks no longer offer these old banknotes, which could become a challenge for many travelers.

digital payment methods dominate

The payment habits of the Danes have changed considerably. Nine out of ten payments are now made with card or via digital payment methods such as Apple Pay. The consumer advice center in Denmark also advises to be paid in the state currency, i.e. the Danish crowns, to avoid unpleasant price premiums in the dynamic currency conversion (DCC). These course premiums can be up to ten percent without any problems, which can be an unexpected additional burden for travelers.

trust in the currency

dealing with money in Denmark is not only a question of convenience, but also of trust. Cash and money in bank accounts are based on the trust of the citizens and companies in the value of the currency. Historically, Denmark experienced an inflationary phase with the pressure of banknotes during the Napoleon wars in 1813, which significantly shaken up the trust of citizens in the currency. These events led to the establishment of the Danmarks National Bank to create a stable currency system and to restore the trust of the citizens into the money, as National banks

The bank still ensures that trust is preserved by updating its banknotes regularly and equipping with modern security features to make counterfeits more difficult.