The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled 10 shortlisted design proposals for the future series of euro banknotes, inviting public feedback before a final selection at the end of 2026. Presented by ECB President Christine Lagarde, these proposals explore two distinct themes chosen after extensive public consultation: European culture and rivers and birds.
More than 365,000 Europeans contributed to the initial consultation in 2023, shaping the themes for the redesign. The ECB emphasizes that the banknotes belong to the people who use them, making public input crucial throughout the process. As Christine Lagarde stated, “Throughout the process, we wanted to ensure that the voices of Europeans were heard.” She added, “If we print the banknotes, the banknotes are yours.”
Exploring the Proposed Euro Banknote Designs
The 10 proposals are evenly split between the two themes. Five designs focus on European culture, featuring major cultural figures from European history on the front of the banknotes. Examples include Ludwig van Beethoven on proposed €10 designs and Marie Curie-Skłodowska on proposed €20 designs. The reverse sides of these banknotes depict shared cultural places and activities, such as a choir on the €10 banknote and a library on the €50 banknote.
The other five proposals highlight rivers and birds, placing natural scenes on the front. These include a wall creeper and a mountain spring on a proposed €5 note, and a kingfisher at a waterfall on a €10 design. Christine Lagarde noted, “Rivers and birds recognize no borders, symbolize freedom and unity amongst Europeans, and our connection to nature.” The reverse sides of these designs feature European institutions, with the European Parliament appearing on a proposed €5 banknote and the European Central Bank on a proposed €20 banknote.
Public Consultation and Final Selection
The public is now invited to share opinions on these designs through a survey accessible via the ECB website. This feedback will support the ECB Governing Council in its decision-making process, which will culminate in the selection of the final design at the end of 2026. The current survey is open until September 21 and aims to collect opinions on individual designs rather than asking participants to rank them. Lagarde encouraged participation, saying, “Tell US which design you like and why.” It is important to note that these are proposals and not final banknote designs.
When will the new euro banknotes be selected?
The final design for the new series of euro banknotes is set to be selected at the end of 2026.
What are the themes for the proposed designs?
The 10 proposed designs explore two themes: European culture and rivers and birds.
How can the public provide feedback on the designs?
The public can share opinions on the designs through a survey available on the ECB website, open until September 21.
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