European Central Bank Reveals Shortlist for First Redesign of Euro Banknotes

Citizens across the European Union have been invited to weigh in on the future appearance of their physical currency.

The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled ten shortlisted design concepts representing the first complete aesthetic overhaul of euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002.

Selected from more than 1,200 initial applications submitted by graphic designers across the bloc, the shortlisted visual concepts focus on two primary thematic streams: "European culture" and "Rivers and birds".

Under the cultural stream, individual denominations feature historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Ludwig van Beethoven alongside architectural elements, libraries, and public spaces, while the second theme pairs native wildlife with European Union (EU) administrative institutions.

An independent jury composed of 21 specialists in fields including history, graphic design, and neuroscience narrowed down the candidates following an initial submission phase that included 25 shortlisted artists.

"Euro banknotes are more than a means of payment, they are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe," said Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB.

To ensure public participation, the central bank launched an online consultation survey that remains open to European residents until September 21, 2026.

An independent research agency is concurrently running a parallel survey targeting a statistically representative sample of citizens across member nations.

Beyond updated visuals, the central bank confirmed that the upcoming banknote series will incorporate enhanced security features to protect against counterfeiting techniques.

The revised physical currency will also feature structural design adjustments aimed at improving tactile accessibility for visually impaired users and reducing overall environmental impact.

The Governing Council of the ECB expects to make its final selection regarding the winning visual concept toward the end of 2026, after evaluating survey findings and technical feasibility reviews.

Once selected, the winning layout will enter an extended engineering, testing, and production phase before entering general circulation.

Current euro banknotes will remain legal tender and will continue to circulate concurrently alongside the updated currency series.