New Euro Banknotes: ECB Prepares Major Design Overhaul

The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing the first major redesign of euro banknotes since the currency was introduced in 2002. Ten final design concepts have now been selected for the future series, covering denominations from €5 to €200.

Two themes for the new euro banknotes

The proposed designs are based on two main themes: “European Culture and Science” and “Rivers and Birds.”

The first concept focuses on prominent figures from European culture, science and history. The proposed designs feature personalities including Marie Skłodowska-Curie, Maria Callas, Ludwig van Beethoven, Miguel de Cervantes, Leonardo da Vinci and Bertha von Suttner.

The second theme highlights Europe’s natural heritage, with images inspired by European rivers, birds and landscapes.

EU residents can vote on the designs

The ECB has launched a public survey allowing residents of European Union countries to express their preferences among the 10 proposed concepts.

The public consultation will remain open until 21 September 2026. A separate survey is also planned for citizens of euro-area countries.

The results of the public vote will be considered alongside the work of the design competition jury and the technical assessment of the proposals.

When will the new banknotes appear?

The ECB is expected to make a final decision on the design of the new series by the end of 2026.

However, the new banknotes will not enter circulation immediately. Their introduction is expected to take place in the following years, while the exact launch date has not yet been announced.

The new series will change the appearance of euro banknotes, but current notes will remain valid.

What will happen to existing euro banknotes?

Current euro banknotes will not suddenly lose their value when the new series is introduced. According to the ECB, existing notes will circulate alongside the new ones for a period of time.

They will then be gradually withdrawn from circulation. This means there is no need for people holding cash euros to exchange their banknotes immediately because of the upcoming redesign.

The redesign will change the appearance of the euro, while existing banknotes will continue to be accepted during the transition.