61.   About two percent of all bank branches opened to satisfy the curiosity of people wanting to handle euro notes and coins.

62.   After midnight, Zalm was the first to receive euro notes from a cash dispenser.

63.   Almost all reports coming in to the European Commission indicate that the introduction of euro notes and coins on Monday is going smoothly, a commission spokesman said.

64.   Anticipation for the introduction of actual euro notes and coins at the start of January also provided support.

65.   But they were all interested in seeing and touching the crisp new euro notes being offered.

66.   Euro notes are printed in all euro zone countries except Luxembourg.

67.   Faulty euro notes were found circulating in Finland, adding to concerns about counterfeiting.

68.   The unveiling of the first prototype euro notes helped boost the impression of an unstoppable juggernaut.

69.   The slack activity is expected to persist through the new year break, with the issue of euro notes and coins providing the main point of interest.

70.   This year partygoers also enjoyed a sound and light show, laid on by the authorities to mark the start of the use of euro notes and coins.