ECB Unveils New Euro Banknote Designs for Secure and Efficient Payments

The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled ten design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes, as part of a long-term effort to ensure that cash remains a secure and efficient means of payment.

The ECB invited graphic designers to submit design entries, which were then examined by an independent jury that selected two main themes: European culture and natural heritage. The final ten designs have been narrowed down from over 1,200 proposals.

A public survey has been launched alongside the design unveiling, urging euro area residents to help choose the currency's future appearance. The survey will remain open until September 21, with an identical survey being run by an independent research company for a representative sample of euro area citizens.

The new banknotes are expected to enter circulation in the following years and will retain their value alongside previous series. Reducing the environmental footprint of the banknotes is also an additional goal of the ECB, focusing on durability and sustainable materials for the updated design.