ECB Unveils New Euro Banknote Designs, But When Will They Hit Your Wallet?

The European Central Bank (ECB) is planning to introduce new euro banknotes by the end of 2026, but it will take several years for them to enter circulation. The current design will remain in use alongside the new ones.

In July 2026, the ECB presented ten design options for the future banknotes under two themes: 'European Culture' and 'Rivers and Birds'. Europeans were invited to evaluate the designs in an online survey, which concluded on September 21. The ECB's Governing Council will select the final design by the end of 2026.

The new banknotes are designed to make counterfeiting more difficult and user-friendly for people with visual impairments. They will retain the same denominations as the current series, from €5 to €200. The dimensions and primary colors will likely remain the same to reduce retrofitting costs.