Multimedia feature: The euro at 10

When trading in the euro began in January 1999, it heralded the start of the single currency as a global financial power.

The unprecedented simultaneous conversion of 11 currencies was followed by the introduction of euro notes and coins in 2002.

Now, hundreds of millions of Europeans use euro notes and coins having said farewell to national tender such as the Deutschemark and the French franc.

Indeed, more euros are in global circulation than dollars, and the euro’s role as an international reserve currency is growing. Now, the euro’s strength has triggered a flight towards the currency.

But the worldwide economic slowdown poses daunting challenges as the euro enters its second decade. Recessions across the continent are testing Europe’s monetary union, with some of its biggest nations facing painful adjustments.

Click on the symbols and flags in our graphic to see some of the highs and lows of the euro as it celebrates its 10th birthday.