On July 23, 2026, the European Central Bank (ECB) released a list containing ten suggestions for new looks for euro banknotes. The entity expects to select the final design by the end of this year, as part of an initiative that aims to introduce banknotes with greater security for euro zone citizens.
These ten proposals that reached the final stage are organized into two categories: “European culture” and “Rivers and birds”. They will go through a public consultation process, allowing citizens from across Europe to contribute their considerations until September 21, as communicated by Christine Lagarde, president of the ECB.
Names of highly relevant historical figures make up some of the options presented, including Marie Skłodowska Curie, the only scientist awarded the Nobel Prize in both Physics and Chemistry, the famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven and the renowned artist Leonardo da Vinci.
The second group of suggestions emphasizes the rich European fauna, with images of birds such as the kingfisher and the white stork, according to the ECB. This process represents the first time that euro banknotes have received a complete, aesthetic makeover since the currency was introduced in 2002.
The back of future banknotes will feature elements from nature or the public sphere, connecting to domains such as art, science and leisure.
The European Central Bank clarified that there will be a gap of several years between the approval of the final design and the actual circulation of the new banknotes, due to the development phases and rigorous testing necessary to guarantee their quality and authenticity.
The euro banknotes currently in circulation will maintain their validity and continue to circulate normally alongside the new series, ensuring the transition without harm to the economy and users.
