Damaged Euro banknotes are often exchangeable in Germany

Damaged euro banknotes are not automatically worthless, and can often be exchanged or refunded, according to the Deutsche Bundesbank. Consumers can attempt to exchange them at banks or apply for reimbursement. The Bundesbank will exchange damaged notes if more than half of the bill remains, or if less than half is missing but proof exists of its destruction. Deliberately damaged notes or those defaced by the Bundesbank are not eligible for exchange. Consumers can also seek reimbursement for damaged coins. The processing of reimbursement applications typically takes six to eight weeks, but may take longer due to high demand.