European Central Bank unveils new euro banknote designs

The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing a major redesign of the euro banknote series. Ten final designs have been selected, covering denominations ranging from 5 to 200 euros. The proposals are organized around two central themes: ‘European culture and science’ and ‘Rivers and birds.’

The ‘culture and science’ theme features prominent historical figures such as Maria Skłodowska-Curie, Ludwig van Beethoven, Leonardo da Vinci, Miguel de Cervantes, Maria Callas, and Bertha von Suttner. These figures will be accompanied by motifs related to music, literature, art, education, and science. The second theme focuses on European nature, landscapes, rivers, and birds.

Residents of Europe can participate in an online consultation to express their opinions on the final designs. This survey is available in all official EU languages and will run until September 21, 2026. The ECB Governing Council is expected to make a final decision on the appearance of the new series by the end of the year. Following the decision, the winning designs will undergo technical development and testing before entering circulation in the coming years.