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Future banknotes

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After 20 years, it’s time to review the look of our banknotes to make them more relatable to Europeans of all ages and backgrounds.

Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB

Euro banknotes are used by millions every day. To make sure they remain secure, easy to handle and accessible to all, periodic reviews are carried out. Ultimately, this may lead to the decision to issue a new banknote series. A redesign is the first step in this process, and for the current euro banknotes, the time has come.

The final decision on the visual appearance for our next banknote series is expected at the latest by early 2027, whereupon the technical work will begin. This means it will be several years before the new banknotes find their way into people’s pockets. 

Learn more about the timeline for redesigned banknotes

Why redesign euro banknotes?

A redesign helps us stay up to date by responding to evolving needs and expectations. In particular, it allows us to:

Reflect Europe's identity and values

Euro banknotes are a tangible reflection of Europe’s shared identity, diversity and values. More relatable motifs can even further strengthen the bond between Europeans and their currency.

Stay ahead of counterfeiting techniques

Technology evolves, and euro banknotes adapt to it. A new series introduces advanced security features, making them more difficult to counterfeit and easier to check for everyone.

Improve inclusion and accessibility

Euro banknotes must be easy to use for everyone. The redesign offers an opportunity to improve features which make banknotes easier to recognise and handle, which helps ensuring that cash remains an accessible means of payment.

Enhance ecological and economic sustainability

As a euro banknote will change hands dozens of times over its lifespan, it must be durable in everyday use. A new euro series is an opportunity to optimise production and to improve their ecological sustainability and durability.

Themes & motifs

On 30 November 2023 the ECB’s Governing Council decided to move to the next phase of the redesign process. Two possible themes were selected: “European culture” and “Rivers and birds”. The associated motifs were chosen in January 2025.

European culture

Europe’s rich cultural heritage and its dynamic cultural and creative sectors strengthen our shared European identity, forging a shared sense of belonging. Culture promotes common values, inclusion and dialogue in Europe and beyond. It brings people together.

Rivers and birds

Rivers and birds recognise no borders, symbolising freedom and unity among Europeans and our connection to nature. Europe boasts a wide variety of rivers and birds that inspire us and remind us of our responsibility to protect the environment.

Design contest and future steps

Design contest

On 15 July 2025, a design contest for the future euro banknotes was launched, inviting designers from across Europe to participate. An independent Design Contest Jury assessed all submissions and selected the best proposals to be considered for a future euro banknote series.

Press release on the design contest

Public surveys

After the contest has concluded, we will launch a public survey to gather views on the shortlisted designs. The Governing Council will consider this feedback before announcing the final design proposal, expected by the end of 2026.

EuroMatters: the ECB Podcast

Future euro banknotes, unpacked

Did you know that euro banknotes are getting a makeover?  What will future euro banknotes look like, why do we need them, and when can we start using them? Our host Stefania Secola puts these questions to banknote communications expert Sarai Artiles.

Listen to "Future euro banknotes, unpacked"

See what the public said so far

We have already consulted the European public twice since the start of the redesign process, with this summer’s public surveys being the final time to do so once more. Have a look at the preferences voiced by the public since the launch of the redesign process.

Qualitative study Theme surveys

SEE ALSO

More on future banknotes

Experts' view on the themes

Report by the Theme Advisory Group

Experts' view on motifs

Report by the Motifs Advisory Group

Want to know more on the redesign process?

FAQ on the redesign of euro banknotes

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