Europeans invited to vote on next generation of euro banknote designs
The European Central Bank has invited people across Europe to help shape the appearance of the next generation of euro banknotes by voting on 10 shortlisted designs in an online public survey.
The redesign represents the first complete thematic overhaul of euro banknotes since their introduction in 2002. A previous update, known as the Europa series introduced between 2013 and 2019, enhanced security features and improved durability but maintained the original design themes.
The current redesign process began in December 2021, with public consultation on theme selection in 2023, followed by a design contest launched in July 2025. The initiative affects over 340 million people across 21 EU member states that now use the euro, following Bulgaria's adoption of the currency on January 1, 2026.
From 1,200 applications to 10 finalists
The ECB received more than 1,200 applications from graphic designers across Europe. From these, 25 designers were invited to develop complete proposals based on one or both of two selected themes. These designers submitted a total of 39 complete series of banknote designs, which were assessed anonymously by an independent jury of 21 experts from fields including graphic design, communication, history and neuroscience. The jury then shortlisted the 10 designs now available for public voting.
Two themes on offer
The 10 proposals are based on two themes selected by the ECB: 'European culture' and 'Rivers and birds'.
The 'European culture' theme showcases Europe's cultural heritage and the role of culture in bringing people together. The original first series of euro banknotes featured architectural designs with windows and gateways symbolizing openness and transparency, and bridges reflecting connection between European nations.
The 'Rivers and birds' theme highlights Europe's natural environment, with rivers and birds representing freedom, unity and Europe's connection with nature.
Enhanced security and accessibility
The new series will incorporate improved security features designed to stay ahead of evolving counterfeiting technology. Despite these concerns, counterfeit euro banknotes remain at historically low levels, with 444,000 counterfeit notes withdrawn from circulation in 2025, representing only 14 counterfeits per million genuine banknotes in circulation.
The redesigned notes will also enhance accessibility for visually impaired people, alongside features that make them easier to check and use. Environmental considerations have shaped the project as well, with plans to improve durability and use more sustainable materials and production methods.
Denominations and timeline
The ECB intends to retain the current denominations from €5 to €200 for the new banknote series. The €500 note, which was discontinued from issuance in April 2019 due to concerns that it facilitated illicit activities such as money laundering and terrorist financing, will not be included in the new design, though existing €500 notes remain legal tender and continue to circulate.
The sizes and dominant colours are likely to remain the same to facilitate the transition for cash-handling machines and businesses.
The new banknotes are expected to enter circulation in the coming years, though no exact launch date has been set. Existing euro banknotes will remain valid and will continue to circulate alongside the new series.
How the decision will be made
The public survey opened on July 23 and closes at 23:59 CET on September 21, 2026. Anyone in Europe can participate, regardless of age, nationality or country of residence. The survey is available in all 24 official EU languages.
In addition to the online survey, an independent research company is conducting a separate parallel survey with the same questions among a representative sample of euro area citizens to ensure balanced input from across the eurozone.
The ECB's Governing Council will make the final decision around the end of 2026, based on a combination of inputs including the Design Contest Jury conclusions, a technical assessment, and the results of both the public and representative surveys. Once selected, the winning design will undergo further development and testing before production begins.
