ECB Consultation on Euro Banknote Designs Concludes

The European Central Bank (ECB) has concluded its public consultation on the design of new euro banknotes. The consultation, which ran from July 23 to September 21, attracted a total of 9.96 million participants across Europe and beyond.

The ECB received input from almost 10 million people, with President Christine Lagarde describing the response as a sign of 'great interest' in the future appearance of the euro currency.

The consultation focused on two main themes: 'European culture' and 'rivers and birds.' The cultural proposals celebrate Europe's shared heritage by featuring figures such as Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, Marie Curie, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci, and Bertha von Suttner.

The second theme focuses on Europe's natural environment, showcasing birds like the wallcreeper, kingfisher, European bee-eater, white stork, avocet, and Northern gannet. The ECB will analyze the results using statistical methods to ensure they reflect the views of people across the eurozone.

The Governing Council is expected to select the final design by the end of this year, taking into account the public consultation, an independent survey, recommendations from a design jury, and technical assessments. Once chosen, the new banknotes will undergo refinement before production begins, with the new notes expected to enter circulation gradually from the early 2030s.