European Central Bank Unveils Final Designs for Future Euro Banknotes

On Thursday, the European Central Bank disclosed 10 final design options for upcoming euro banknotes, inviting European citizens to have the decisive say in the selection process.

The designs prominently feature distinguished personalities who have made significant contributions to art, music, science, and literature. Among them are opera star Maria Callas on the five-euro note, Ludwig van Beethoven on the ten-euro note, and Leonardo da Vinci on the hundred-euro note.

The designs also highlight rivers and birds that cross continental borders, symbolizing Europe's biological diversity and the imperative of its protection.

On the reverse side of the hundred-euro note, designers proposed various scenes depicting visitors enjoying art exhibitions, while others suggested images representing modern European Union institutions.

The European Central Bank has invited the public to participate in a survey open until 21 September 2026 to share their opinions on the designs.

More than 1,200 proposals were initially reviewed by the bank, with two main themes emerging that reflect the continent's identity: European culture and the richness of nature.

This marks the first comprehensive redesign of the euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002. Historically, euro banknotes avoided references to the culture of any specific country, but many of these new designs aim to tell stories about the continent as a whole.

Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, stated, "Euro banknotes are more than just a means of payment; they are among the most tangible expressions of Europe. Through designs that combine beauty and meaning, they will strengthen our shared identity."

The results of the public survey will be considered alongside a separate poll conducted by an independent research firm within the European Union. By the end of the year, the European Union's governing council will make the final selection based on a combination of public feedback from the surveys, the judgment of an independent jury, and technical evaluation.

Following the selection, it will take several more years before the new banknotes enter production, incorporating enhanced security features and accommodations for visually impaired users.