Norwegian Currency Guide: Coins, Banknotes, and the Cashless Future

Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK), subdivided into 100 øre. While øre coins have been withdrawn from circulation (the last 50-øre coin was demonetized in 2012), prices are still often quoted in øre and rounded at the register.

Coins in Circulation

• 1 krone – Copper-colored, features the royal monogram.
• 5 kroner – Distinctive with a hole in the center; depicts the St. Olav’s Cross.
• 10 kroner – Two-tone (gold center, silver ring); features a stave church roof detail.
• 20 kroner – Two-tone (silver center, gold ring); shows a Viking ship prow.

Banknotes (Series VIII, issued 2017–2019)

All notes share a "Sea" theme, reflecting Norway’s maritime heritage. They feature advanced security features like holographic stripes and fluorescent printing.

• 50 kr – Green; Utvær Lighthouse / Pixelated sea.
• 100 kr – Red/Orange; Gokstad Viking Ship / Pixelated sea.
• 200 kr – Blue; Cod fish / Pixelated sea.
• 500 kr – Yellow/Orange; RS 14 "Stavanger" rescue vessel / Pixelated sea.
• 1000 kr – Purple; A wave / Pixelated horizon.

The Drive Toward a Cashless Society

Norway is a global leader in digital payments. Cash usage has plummeted—less than 3% of transactions by value are now conducted in physical currency. The government and central bank (Norges Bank) have signaled a target to be effectively cashless by 2030. Mobile payment apps like Vipps (now Vipps MobilePay) are ubiquitous, accepted everywhere from taxis to street vendors. Travelers should ensure they have a working debit/credit card or mobile payment setup; relying solely on cash is increasingly impractical.