Euro Banknote Redesign Contest Draws 6 Million Voters

The European Central Bank has launched a redesign contest for euro banknotes that has drawn in over 6 million voters within just one week. The survey, which concerns the first full redesign since euro paper money entered circulation in 2002, features 10 shortlisted proposals: five based on cultural figures and five on wildlife.

The ECB's chair, Christine Lagarde, unveiled the shortlisted designs last week. They include iconic European cultural figures such as Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, Marie Curie, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci, and Bertha von Suttner, alongside scenes of artistic and intellectual activity.

The wildlife designs feature birds and landscapes typical of Europe, including the wallcreeper, kingfisher, bee-eater, white stork, avocet, and northern gannet. The designs cover the €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200 notes, using colours and motifs set in advance by the central bank.

The ECB website survey closes on 21 September, but its feedback will not solely determine the final choice. A second quantitative survey and a jury of designers are also expected to influence the decision. The ECB plans to select a winning design at the end of 2026.