The last day to spend 1000 kroner banknotes in Danish stores is Saturday, as they will become invalid after closing time. These banknotes can no longer be exchanged at banks.

The Confederation of Danish Industry supports the removal of the 1000 kroner notes, stating it will simplify transactions and increase safety for both employees and businesses. According to DI Trade, the decline in cash transactions has led to issues with large bills at checkout.

DI Trade also noted that the large bills were also used to trick store clerks, where trick thieves ask to buy a cheap lighter and then have their money exchanged.

While Saturday marks the final opportunity to spend these notes, restrictions have been in place since June of last year, allowing stores to decline 1000 kroner bills for purchases under 250 kroner.

In addition to the 1000 kroner notes, older series of banknotes from 1944, 1952, 1972, and 1997 are also being phased out. The DI Trade stated that it is time for these banknotes to be retired, so that the employee at the checkout does not have to be able to identify banknotes that are 2-3-4 times older than themselves.

Even after May 31, it will still be possible to exchange the old 1000 kroner notes for valid currency at Forex exchange offices in Aarhus, Odense, and Copenhagen until May 31, 2026. According to the National Bank’s latest statement from April, 1000 kroner notes worth DKK 1.7 billion were still in circulation.