The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled the new euro banknotes, revealing the ten shortlisted design proposals for the next banknote series. The proposals are built around two distinct themes: “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds”. Among the notable figures featured are Maria Callas, Marie Curie, Leonardo da Vinci, Miguel de Cervantes, and Ludwig van Beethoven. The final design will be selected following a public consultation open to all eurozone citizens. The new banknotes will mark the first complete redesign of the euro since the single currency was introduced in 2002, and will incorporate advanced security technologies and more sustainable production methods.
New euro banknotes: The two themes and the iconic figures
The proposals were presented by ECB President Christine Lagarde, who emphasized that banknotes are more than just a means of payment — they are a symbol of European identity. “Euro banknotes are more than a means of payment — they are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe. Through designs that combine beauty and meaning, they will strengthen our shared identity,” she stated. The ten proposals emerged from a pan-European design competition that attracted more than 1,200 graphic designers. From these, 25 creators were selected to submit complete proposals, which were then evaluated by an independent panel of 21 experts.
The “European Culture” theme features some of history’s most celebrated figures from the arts and sciences, including Maria Callas, Marie Curie, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci, and Ludwig van Beethoven. The second theme, “Rivers and Birds”, focuses on Europe’s natural environment, showcasing ecosystems and species from European wildlife.
Ten selected design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes have been unveiled.
Explore the proposals and tell us which ones you prefer.
Have your say https://t.co/VvcczFFxX3 pic.twitter.com/mZGWAdaz62
— European Central Bank (@ecb) July 23, 2026
Public vote: When will the new banknotes enter circulation?
Following the unveiling of the designs, the European Central Bank has launched a public consultation, giving eurozone citizens the opportunity to express their preference. The online vote will remain open until September 21, 2026, while an independent polling firm will simultaneously conduct a survey among a representative sample of citizens across eurozone countries.
The ECB’s Governing Council is expected to make its final decision on the chosen design by the end of 2026. Testing phases will follow before production begins. The new banknote series will enter circulation in the coming years; however, current banknotes will not be immediately withdrawn — they will continue to circulate alongside the new designs and will retain their full legal value.
According to the ECB, the new banknotes will feature enhanced security elements, will be easier to authenticate even for people with visual impairments, and will be produced using more sustainable materials and processes as part of efforts to reduce their environmental footprint.
As ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone noted, the redesign is part of a long-term strategy to ensure that cash remains a safe, reliable, and accessible means of payment, while preserving citizens’ freedom to choose how they conduct their transactions.
