The European Central Bank (ECB) unveiled the ten shortlisted designs for the next series of euro banknotes on Thursday, 23 July 2026. ECB President Christine Lagarde presented the proposals, which are grouped around two thematic pillars: European Culture and Rivers and Birds. The designs draw inspiration from iconic cultural figures—including Greek soprano Maria Callas and German composer Ludwig van Beethoven—as well as Europe’s natural landscapes and biodiversity.
A Public Choice
‘Euro banknotes are more than a means of payment—they are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe,’ said Lagarde. ‘Through designs that combine beauty and meaning, they will strengthen our shared identity.’
The shortlisted entries emerged from a pan-European design competition that attracted over 1,200 submissions from graphic designers across the EU. A jury of 21 independent experts—appointed by a central bank in the euro area—selected 25 finalists, who were then invited to develop proposals for one or both themes. From those, ten final designs were chosen.
The ECB has now launched a public consultation to gather citizens’ views. An online survey is open until 21 September 2026, inviting people across the euro area to share their preferences. Simultaneously, an independent research firm will conduct a parallel survey with a representative sample of euro-area citizens using identical questions.
Towards Final Selection
The ECB’s Governing Council is expected to make its final decision on the new banknote series by the end of 2026. The selected design will undergo rigorous testing before entering production. The new notes are scheduled to enter circulation in the coming years.
Importantly, the current series of euro banknotes—first issued in 2002—will remain legal tender and continue circulating alongside the new series. This marks the first full redesign of euro notes since their introduction.
According to Piero Cipollone, a member of the ECB’s Executive Board, ‘The redesign forms part of the Eurosystem’s long-term commitment to ensuring cash remains a secure, efficient, and accessible means of payment—while preserving citizens’ access to public money and their freedom to choose how they pay.’
The new banknotes will incorporate enhanced security features to improve authenticity verification and accessibility—including for people with visual impairments. The ECB is also aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of the notes by improving their durability and sustainability.