ECB Plans New Euro Banknotes with Enhanced Security Features

The European Central Bank (ECB) is working on a new series of euro banknotes, aiming to finalize the design by the end of 2026. The new banknotes will feature enhanced security measures and updated designs, but they won't enter circulation for several more years. Current euro banknotes will continue to hold their value and remain in circulation alongside the new ones.

In July 2026, the ECB presented ten design options under two themes: “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds.” The “European Culture” theme includes portraits of famous Europeans like Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Maria Skłodowska-Curie. The “Rivers and Birds” theme focuses on European nature, combining images of rivers, birds, and European institutions. The final design will be chosen by the ECB’s Governing Council by the end of 2026.

The exact release date of the new euro banknotes has not been announced. After the design is approved, further development, testing, and production will be required, which could take several years. The ECB has not yet determined the procedure for putting the new series into circulation.

The redesign is intended to make counterfeiting more difficult and improve user-friendliness, particularly for people with visual impairments. The denominations of the current series, from €5 to €200, will remain the same, as will the dimensions and primary colors, to reduce the costs of retrofitting cash-processing equipment.