The European Central Bank has unveiled the 10 shortlisted designs for the next series of euro banknotes and launched an online public consultation inviting citizens across Europe to share their views.
The proposals are based on two themes selected through a public consultation process: European Culture and Rivers and Birds. Five designs were shortlisted under each theme.
According to the ECB, the finalists emerged from a Europe-wide design competition that attracted more than 1,200 applications. Twenty-five graphic designers were invited to submit proposals for one or both themes.
ECB President Christine Lagarde said euro banknotes are "more than a means of payment" and represent one of the most tangible expressions of Europe.
She noted that the new designs aim to combine aesthetics with meaning while strengthening a shared European identity.
More than 365,000 Europeans participated in a consultation in 2023 that helped determine the themes for the redesign process.
View the 10 shortlisted banknote designs here.
Two themes
Under the European Culture theme, the proposed banknotes feature prominent figures from European history and culture, alongside depictions of cultural venues, artistic activities and public spaces.
The Rivers and Birds theme highlights Europe's natural environment. The designs feature various bird species and river landscapes, while the reverse sides depict European institutions.
The public consultation will remain open until 21 September 2026.
The ECB said the Governing Council will consider public feedback, technical assessments and recommendations from the design competition jury before selecting the final design.
A final decision is expected by the end of the year, after which the selected proposal will undergo further development and testing before entering production.
The new banknotes are not expected to enter circulation for several years. Existing euro banknotes will remain valid and continue to circulate alongside the new series.
Take part in the ECB public survey here.
Source: CNA
