# Counterfeit euro banknote circulation in Germany > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/counterfeit-euro-banknote-circulation-in-germany > Updated: 2026-08-31T09:33:07.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. The Deutsche Bundesbank reported a decline in counterfeit euro banknotes during the first half of 2026, with approximately 30,000 fake notes removed from circulation. While the total financial loss was estimated at €1.75 million, the 50-euro denomination remained the most frequently forged, accounting for roughly 47% of cases. Board member Lutz Lienenkämper noted that counterfeit money is now relatively rare in Germany, averaging seven fake notes per 10,000 residents. By late August, specific reports emerged regarding the circulation of counterfeit 50-euro notes in regions such as Rostock and Erfurt. In Kühlungsborn, restaurateurs suspected fake notes were introduced during a village festival, while police also noted attempts to deposit them into ATMs. These counterfeit bills were described as being larger than genuine notes and lacking watermarks. Authorities continue to advise the public to use security features to inspect currency and to report suspicious notes immediately. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: Counterfeit 50-euro notes reported in Kühlungsborn and Erfurt Police in Germany are investigating the circulation of counterfeit 50-euro notes reported in Kühlungsborn and Erfurt. The fake bills lack watermarks and are larger than genuine currency. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/counterfeit-50-euro-notes-reported-in-khlungsborn-and-erfurt ### 2026-08-06: German Bundesbank reports decline in counterfeit euro notes Germany's Bundesbank reports a drop to 30,000 counterfeit euro notes in H1 2026, €1.75 M loss, rise in fake 100‑euro notes, and ongoing court cases including an Augsburg fine. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bavaria-sees-surge-in-highquality-counterfeit-euro-notes --- Cite as: Counterfeit euro banknote circulation in Germany. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/counterfeit-euro-banknote-circulation-in-germany