ECB Announces New Euro Banknote Designs for End-of-2026 Approval
The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing to update its euro banknotes, and the process has already begun. By the end of 2026, the ECB plans to approve a new design for the banknotes, which will then take several years to enter circulation.
Currently, ten design options are being considered, divided into two themes: 'European Culture' and 'Rivers and Birds'. The 'European Culture' theme proposes portraits of famous figures such as Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, Marie Curie, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci, and Bertha von Suttner on the €5 to €200 banknotes. The reverse side may feature libraries, educational institutions, or performance stages.
The other theme, 'Rivers and Birds', focuses on Europe's natural beauty, combining images of water bodies and birds with European institutions. Both themes are still in proposal form.