ECB opens public vote on new euro banknote designs for first redesign since 2002

The European Central Bank (ECB) has launched a public consultation to choose the first complete redesign of euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002. Ten finalist designs have been unveiled, grouped into two themes: 'European Culture' and 'Rivers and Birds' Source: larepublicaco; infobae; elconfidencial.

The two themes

The 'European Culture' theme features portraits of historical figures: Maria Callas (€5), Ludwig van Beethoven (€10), Marie Curie (€20), Miguel de Cervantes (€50), Leonardo da Vinci (€100), and Bertha von Suttner (€200). Reverses show cultural scenes Source: elconfidencial; clarin. The 'Rivers and Birds' theme showcases six European bird species with river landscapes on the obverse, and EU institutions on the reverse, such as the European Parliament and the ECB building Source: euronewses; elmundoes.

How to vote

Any eurozone citizen can vote online until 21 September 2026 via the ECB website. The result is not binding; the ECB's Governing Council will make the final decision by end of 2026, considering also a parallel survey by an independent polling firm Source: abces; lavanguardia.

Next steps

After selection, the chosen design will undergo technical development and testing before mass production. The new series is expected to enter circulation in the next few years. Current banknotes will remain legal tender Source: larepublicaco; infobae.