The euro banknotes are set to receive a fresh new look, with the European Central Bank (ECB) working since late 2021 on redesigning the notes. In the initial stage, EU citizens and an independent panel of experts were consulted to identify suitable themes for the new series. After gathering input from a range of suggestions, two central themes emerged as contenders: European Culture and Rivers and Birds.
In January 2025, the ECB's Governing Council selected specific motifs to represent the chosen themes. For European Culture, the focus is on notable historic European figures, while Rivers and Birds will be illustrated through various bird species. The ECB also decided to open up the process to professional graphic designers from across the EU, inviting them to register for the competition between 15 July and 18 August 2025.
By November 2025, the ECB had narrowed down 1,241 submissions to 25 designers. Of these, 17 were permitted to submit proposals for both themes, six for Rivers and Birds only, and two for European Culture exclusively. In total, 39 distinct design proposals were developed for consideration.
From this pool of 39, the ECB has shortlisted 10 designs, five for each theme. The public is now invited to vote for their favourite design online until 21 September.
One of the proposed designs depicts several EU institutions on the reverse side of the notes. Notably, the €50 and €200 notes in this design feature the European Court of Justice and the European Court of Auditors, both of which are located in the Kirchberg district of Luxembourg City.
However, it is important to note that the design receiving the most public votes will not necessarily be adopted for the final series. In addition to the online vote, the ECB will conduct a representative survey of euro area residents and seek the input of a jury on the various submissions. Each design will also be assessed for technical feasibility before a final decision is made.
The introduction of the new banknotes is expected towards the end of the 2020s. Before they reach the wallets of EU citizens, the designs will undergo detailed development and extensive testing.
