Euro Banknote Designs: Cultural Icons vs. Avian Biodiversity
The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled two potential design themes for the next generation of euro banknotes, leaving the final decision to the public. A shortlist of over 1,200 initial proposals has been narrowed down to two core concepts: one celebrating European culture and the other highlighting the continent's natural heritage.
The cultural concept would feature portraits of six influential figures who have shaped European history and arts, including opera legend Maria Callas on the €5 note, composer Ludwig van Beethoven on the €10, scientist Marie Curie on the €20, author Miguel de Cervantes on the €50, Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci on the €100, and peace activist Bertha von Suttner on the €200.
In contrast, the nature-focused theme would showcase Europe's rich birdlife, with a different species assigned to each denomination: the wallcreeper (€5), the kingfisher (€10), the bee-eater (€20), the white stork (€50), the avocet (€100), and the northern gannet (€200).
The new banknotes are expected to enter circulation by late 2026, marking a significant update to the currency's look and feel. The ECB last redesigned the euro notes in 2013, and this refresh is part of a broader effort to keep the currency modern, secure, and reflective of evolving societal values.