ECB unveils two design series for new euro banknotes: historical figures or birds, put to public vote

Published Jul 31, 04:46 AM UTC

The European Central Bank (ECB) has proposed two series of new motifs for euro banknotes, aiming to strengthen European identity. Citizens will vote on whether the notes feature historical personalities (including Maria Callas, Beethoven, Marie Curie, Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci, and Bertha von Suttner) or birds (Wallcreeper, Kingfisher, Bee-eater, White Stork, Avocet, and Northern Gannet) with EU institutions on the reverse. The article, published by Die Welt on July 31, 2026, criticizes the current euro banknotes as an 'aesthetic stillbirth' since their 2002 introduction, describing them as soulless and resembling play money. The author expresses skepticism about the new designs, noting some look 'cheap and AI-generated,' and suggests the bird series could ignite culture wars. ECB President Christine Lagarde is quoted emphasizing that euro banknotes are 'one of the most tangible expressions of Europe.' The article references German writer Kurt Tucholsky's historical critique of banknote aesthetics.

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