Denmark Sets Final Deadline to Exchange Old Banknotes

Denmark has set May 31, 2026, as the final deadline to exchange 1000-krone and older-series banknotes, after which they will lose all value and only the 2009 series will remain valid. With around DKK 3.3 billion still in circulation, authorities urge individuals to exchange notes in time at designated locations, as strict requirements apply and no exchanges will be possible after the deadline.

Denmark has announced that May 31, 2026, is the final deadline to exchange 1000-krone and older-series banknotes. After this date, these banknotes will lose all value and can no longer be exchanged.

The phase-out applies to:

-      1000-krone banknotes,

-      Older series from 1944, 1952, 1972, and 1997.

These banknotes have already been invalid for payments since May 31, 2025.

After May 31, 2026, only the 2009 banknote series will remain valid in Denmark and Greenland.

Current status:

-       Around DKK 21.1 billion has already been exchanged since November 2023,

-       About DKK 3.3 billion in old banknotes is still in circulation and must be exchanged before the deadline.

Banknotes can be exchanged at designated points operated by Danmarks Nationalbank through FOREX exchange offices in:

-       Aarhus,

-       Odense,

-       Copenhagen.

Requirements:

-       Physical presence at the exchange location,

-       Valid photo ID,

-       Completed declaration form.

In Greenland and the Faroe Islands, exchanges can also be made through local banks until the same deadline.

Authorities urge people not to wait until the last moment due to expected high demand. After the deadline, the banknotes will become completely worthless, unless kept as collectibles.