European Central Bank Evaluates New Euro Designs

The European Central Bank (ECB) is assessing ten shortlisted proposals for a full redesign of euro banknotes, a move that would mark the first major update since the currency began circulating in 2002. ECB President Christine Lagarde presented the shortlisted concepts, which are now moving through a multi-step evaluation process that includes public input and expert review.

The ECB said the redesign is primarily aimed at strengthening banknote security to reduce counterfeiting risks. At the same time, the central bank is seeking to replace the neutral architectural imagery used since 2002 with themes that could help people feel a stronger connection to the currency.

Two themes: cultural figures and European wildlife The ten designs are grouped under two distinct thematic directions. One set focuses on European cultural figures, while the other highlights wildlife found across the region.

Under the cultural theme, the ECB cited examples including Marie Curie, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Leonardo da Vinci. Under the wildlife theme, the ECB pointed to species such as the white stork and the kingfisher.

Public survey and open call shaped the shortlist

The ECB said the selection process incorporates extensive public engagement. A public survey gathered more than 6 million responses in a single week, providing a large dataset of preferences that will feed into the next stages.

The shortlist was also shaped by an open call held in 2025, which drew 1,241 submitted applications. From that broader pool, the ECB narrowed the field down to the ten proposals now under review.

Officials said the final design decision is expected by the end of 2026. The ECB said the choice will reflect feedback from the public survey, a quantitative study, and the views of a jury of design experts.

Timeline for new notes

If the process proceeds as planned, the redesigned euro banknotes are scheduled to enter circulation between 2030 and 2031. The ECB has not announced which of the two themes will ultimately be selected, or how the final visuals will be allocated across denominations.

The timeline indicates that the current banknote series will remain in use for several more years while the ECB completes selection, testing, and preparation for issuance. For now, the central bank’s focus remains on finalising a design set that combines stronger security features with imagery intended to resonate more directly with the public.