Euro cheques, electronic transfers, banking, etc.) at midnight on 1 January 1999, when the national currencies of participating countries (the eurozone) ceased to exist independently. Their exchange rates were locked at fixed rates against each other. The euro thus became the successor to the European Currency Unit (ECU). The notes and coins for the old currencies, however, continued to be used as legal tender until new euro notes and coins were introduced on 1 January 2002. The changeover period during which the former currencies' notes and coins were exchanged for those of the euro lasted about two months, until 28 February
International status and usage of the euro considering making the euro a third official currency of the country to go along with the US dollar and the Balboa. In various countries the euro is accepted by some merchants albeit not being official currency there. Additionally sometimes it is used for pricing purposes even if the actual payments are made in the official currency (e.g., for real estate). The Swedish town of Höganäs has, since 1 January 2009, generally allowed shop payments in euros alongside the Swedish krona. Widespread usage, though unofficial, is also present in towns such as Haparanda, on the border with Finland. The euro is