ECB unveils shortlisted euro banknote designs, launches public survey

Published Jul 23, 02:15 PM UTC

The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled ten shortlisted design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes, based on two themes: 'European culture' and 'Rivers and birds'. The designs were selected from over 1,200 applications in an EU-wide contest, with 25 graphic designers invited to create proposals and an independent jury of 21 experts shortlisting the final ten. The ECB has launched an online public survey open until 21 September 2026, alongside a parallel survey by an independent research company among a representative sample of euro area citizens. The Governing Council is expected to select a final design around the end of the year, considering the jury's conclusions, technical assessments, and survey results. The selected design will undergo further development and testing before entering circulation in subsequent years. This is the first complete redesign of euro banknotes since their issuance in 2002. The new notes will incorporate improved security features, enhanced accessibility, and aim to reduce environmental footprint.