EditECB unveils shortlisted designs for new euro banknotes and launches public survey
This will be the first complete redesign of the euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002
The European Central Bank (ECB) has revealed the ten shortlisted design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes and invited the public to share their views through an online survey that will remain open until 21 September 2026.
The shortlisted proposals are based on two themes previously selected by the ECB: “European culture” and “Rivers and birds.” They result from an EU-wide design contest that attracted more than 1,200 applications from graphic designers. Twenty-five designers were invited to develop proposals for one or both themes. An independent jury of 21 experts – nominated by euro area central banks and drawn from fields including graphic design, communication, neuroscience and history – then selected the ten finalists.
“Euro banknotes are more than a means of payment – they are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe,” said ECB President Christine Lagarde. “Through designs that combine beauty and meaning, they will reinforce our shared identity.”
Everyone in Europe can now participate in the online public survey on the shortlisted designs. In parallel, an independent research company will conduct a separate survey among a representative sample of euro area citizens using the same questions. The ECB plans to publish a report on the results of both surveys after the final design concept is chosen.
The Governing Council is expected to select the winning design proposal around the end of 2026. Its decision will draw on the jury’s conclusions, a technical assessment and the findings of the two surveys. Once selected, the design will undergo further development and testing before production. Banknotes from the new series are expected to enter circulation in subsequent years. Existing euro banknotes will retain their value and continue to circulate alongside the new ones.
This will be the first complete redesign of the euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002. According to ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone, the redesign forms part of the Eurosystem’s long-term effort to ensure that cash remains a secure, efficient and relatable means of payment, while preserving citizens’ access to public money and their freedom to choose how to pay.
The new series will incorporate improved security features to make authentication easier and enhance accessibility, including for visually impaired people. The ECB also aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the banknotes by increasing their durability and using more sustainable materials and production processes.
Images and videos of the shortlisted proposals, as well as further information about the selection process, are available on the ECB’s multimedia portal.
Caption: Everyone in Europe can now participate in the online public survey on the shortlisted designs [ECB website]
Updated: July 24, 2026 - 05:35
