Euro's triumphant start leaves many challenges The launch of the euro has been a stunning technical success. Much credit should go to the European Central Bank in Frankfurt. A cadre of professionals oversaw the introduction of millions of notes and coins, ensuring that the biggest logistical exercise in continental Europe since World War II was a success. Yet the economic and political implications of the introduction of the euro are far less clear-cut. 10:15  | Read History is made: The Euro arrives The euro made a leap into the wallets, cash tills and piggy banks of the eurozone's 300m citizens on January 1 2002. FT reporters across the eurozone share their experiences of the historic day. . . more. Monetary policy Inside the ECB FT.com looks at the structure and the people involved in the European Central Bank. Euro A-Z Glossary From cent to Treaty of Rome - use our glossary to decipher euro terms. Chronology The history of the euro The euro reached maturity on January 1, 2002 when it became a real currency. But it has been a turbulent and chequered history. Changeover stories Before and after launch Read how the changeover affected 3 individuals: a German taxi driver, a Greek kiosk owner and a French museum worker.