Today, as part of the ECB’s banknote redesign process, ten shortlisted design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes were unveiled, based on the themes “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds”. The final design is expected to be selected by the end of this year. At the same time, we have launched a public survey in which people across Europe can express their views on the new banknote designs. You are invited to participate. The survey is open until 21 September 2026.
The redesign of the banknotes aims to ensure that the new series reflects our shared European identity and the values that unite us even more strongly.
Another important objective is to enhance the security features, making it easier to verify authenticity and improving accessibility, including for blind and partially sighted people. At the same time, we aim to increase the durability of the banknotes and reduce the environmental impact associated with their production, circulation, and use.
How Were the Motifs Selected?
In 2025, the Governing Council of the ECB selected the motifs for future euro banknotes. The theme “European Culture” focuses on shared cultural spaces and prominent figures from European history, chosen for the significant impact they made in their respective fields. The theme “Rivers and Birds” highlights the resilience and diversity of the natural world, complemented on the reverse side by images of European institutions.
The next step was a public design competition held across Europe to select the best design proposals for the new banknotes. More than 1,200 graphic designers applied, and 25 were invited to develop and submit their design concepts.
An independent jury shortlisted ten design proposals.
Share Your Opinion!
Together with the ECB, we are inviting citizens of Europe for their views on the ten shortlisted design proposals. We invite you to take part in the survey, as your opinion will help shape the final decision on the new banknotes, which will reflect our shared European identity, culture, and values.
By participating in the survey, you will contribute to the selection of the new banknote designs that will be used every day by millions of people across Europe. The survey is open until 21 September 2026.
Within the ECB, we expect to make the final decision on the design of the new banknotes by the end of the year. In reaching this decision, we will take into account the findings of the design competition jury, the technical assessment, and the results of both surveys (in addition to the online survey linked above, an independent public opinion agency will conduct a separate survey using the same questions on a representative sample of citizens from the euro area).
The new series of banknotes is expected to enter circulation in the coming years. Euro banknotes from previous series will retain their value and will continue to circulate alongside the new series.
More information is available in the ECB’s press release and on the ECB’s website, where you can also find answers to frequently asked questions on the redesign of euro banknotes.
