The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled the final shortlist of designs for the next generation of euro banknotes, giving European citizens the opportunity to help decide how the continent's common currency will look in the future.
The central bank presented 10 finalist designs, divided into two themes—European Culture and Rivers and Birds—marking the first time the public has been invited to play a direct role in selecting the visual identity of euro banknotes. The initiative is part of the ECB's long-term plan to modernize the euro while reflecting Europe's shared heritage and values.
Public Vote Opens Across the Euro Area
ECB President Christine Lagarde announced the finalists during an event in Frankfurt and encouraged citizens across the euro area to participate in an online public consultation.
The shortlisted designs were selected after experts reviewed more than 1,200 submissions from across Europe. Voters can now choose their preferred concept through a survey hosted on the ECB's official website. Feedback from the consultation will help guide the Governing Council before a final design is approved.
The ECB said the redesign aims to ensure that future euro banknotes remain recognizable, secure, and representative of the cultural and natural diversity of Europe.
European Culture Theme Highlights Historic Figures
One of the two proposed themes celebrates influential personalities who have shaped European history through art, science, literature, music, and peace.
Under this concept:
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The €5 note features celebrated opera singer Maria Callas.
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The €10 note honors composer Ludwig van Beethoven.
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The €20 note is dedicated to Nobel Prize-winning scientist Marie Curie.
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The €50 note showcases Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote.
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The €100 note highlights Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci.
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The €200 note features peace activist and Nobel laureate Bertha von Suttner.
According to the ECB, the collection recognizes individuals whose contributions continue to influence European identity across generations.
Nature-Themed Design Celebrates Biodiversity
The second proposal shifts the focus from historic personalities to Europe's natural environment.
Each denomination pairs a native European bird with a river landscape, symbolizing biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and the interconnected nature of European countries. The reverse side of every note depicts one of the European Union's major institutions.
Among the featured species are the wallcreeper, kingfisher, European bee-eater, white stork, avocet, and northern gannet, each representing different ecological habitats found across the continent.
The ECB said the theme reflects Europe's commitment to protecting nature while emphasizing the importance of shared environmental responsibility.
Modernizing the Euro
The redesign project forms part of the ECB's broader strategy to refresh euro banknotes more than two decades after they were first introduced.
Officials noted that while the appearance of the currency will change, advanced security features will remain a key priority to combat counterfeiting and maintain public confidence in cash payments.
The updated banknotes are also expected to incorporate new technologies that improve durability, accessibility, and security for everyday users.
Final Design to Be Selected After Public Consultation
Following the completion of the public consultation, the ECB will evaluate citizens' preferences alongside recommendations from design experts before selecting the winning concept.
The approved design will then move into the technical development and production phase, including testing, security verification, and printing preparations.
According to the ECB's current timeline, the redesigned euro banknotes are expected to begin entering circulation from the end of 2026, although the transition will take place gradually to allow existing banknotes to remain in use.
A New Look for Europe's Common Currency
The redesign represents one of the most significant visual updates to the euro since its introduction and reflects the ECB's effort to create banknotes that resonate with today's Europe.
Whether Europeans choose legendary cultural figures or iconic birds and landscapes, the next generation of euro banknotes is expected to symbolize both the continent's rich heritage and its vision for the future, while continuing to serve as one of the world's most widely used currencies.
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