ECB unveils finalist designs for new euro banknotes – public vote underway
The European Central Bank has presented 10 finalist designs for the next euro banknote series and opened a public survey. It will be the first complete redesign of euro banknotes since cash was introduced in 2002.
The European Central Bank (ECB) has reached a decisive stage in developing its new euro banknote series, presenting 10 finalist design concepts. A public survey allowing Europeans to weigh in on the designs is set to close soon, according to Polish outlet "Fakt".
Each concept covers a full set of banknotes across denominations from 5 to 200 euros. The designs are built around two themes: "European culture" combined with science, and "Rivers and birds".
Two design themes
The first theme includes a proposed 20-euro note featuring Nobel laureate Marie Skłodowska-Curie. Other variants depict Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci and Bertha von Suttner, with portraits accompanied by motifs tied to art, music, education, literature and science.
The second theme shows European rivers, birds and characteristic landscapes, meant to symbolize nature's diversity and resilience. The reverse side of these notes features European institutions.
ECB President Christine Lagarde said euro banknotes are more than a means of payment — they are among the most tangible symbols of Europe — and that a design combining beauty with deeper meaning will strengthen a shared identity.
When the new notes will appear
The ECB's Governing Council plans to make a final decision on the chosen design by the end of this year, taking into account the design jury's assessment, technical evaluation, and the results of two public surveys. Once selected, the design will be refined and tested before production begins, with the new series expected to enter circulation within the coming years.
The new notes will feature upgraded anti-counterfeiting features and improved usability, including for people with visual impairments, along with more environmentally friendly materials and production methods. Existing banknotes will remain in circulation alongside the new series and be phased out gradually.
This will be the first complete overhaul of euro banknote appearance since their introduction in 2002. In July this year it emerged that one of the design options had sparked a dispute between Poland and France over the spelling of Marie Skłodowska-Curie's name on the planned 20-euro note.
