European Central Bank to select new euro banknote designs by 2026

The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing a new series of euro banknotes, with a final design expected to be approved by the end of 2026. The decision will be based on a public survey involving approximately nine million Europeans, which concluded on September 21, alongside technical evaluations and jury conclusions.

Two primary design themes have been proposed: ‘European Culture’ and ‘Rivers and Birds.’ The ‘European Culture’ theme features portraits of notable figures, such as Maria Callas (5 euro), Ludwig van Beethoven (10 euro), Marie Skłodowska-Curie (20 euro), Miguel de Cervantes (50 euro), Leonardo da Vinci (100 euro), and Bertha von Suttner (200 euro). The ‘Rivers and Birds’ theme focuses on European nature, combining imagery of waterways and birds with European institutional buildings.

Once the design is finalized, a period of development, testing, and production will follow, meaning the new notes will not enter circulation for several years. The ECB has clarified that current banknotes will remain valid and retain their value, continuing to circulate alongside the new series. The new design aims to provide enhanced anti-counterfeiting features and improved accessibility for the visually impaired. Denominations, basic colors, and dimensions are expected to remain largely consistent.