With the launch of the digital euro on the horizon and smartphone payments becoming increasingly commonplace, you might think that banknotes are destined to become a thing of the past. But the story is far from over. In 2021, the European Central Bank (ECB) announced the design of a new series of banknotes that are even more secure and manufactured using environmentally friendly processes.
Following a consultation with Europeans involving several surveys, the ECB's Governing Council has selected two possible themes for our future banknotes: “European culture” and “rivers and birds”.
The “European culture” theme aims to celebrate the shared heritage that has shaped our European identity over the centuries, using portraits of Maria Callas, Leonardo da Vinci, Ludwig van Beethoven, or even Marie Curie, who could appear for a second time, on the 20-euro note. The “rivers and birds” theme aims to highlight the strength and diversity of Europe's natural ecosystems and the importance of protecting nature, by showing different stages of a river's life (from its source to the sea) and the region’s birds.
The design competition was launched on 15 July 2025. We will have to wait until 2026 to see a preview of what the new banknotes will look like, but their date of issuance has still not been set. One thing is certain, banknotes continue to convey a strong message, beyond their role as a simple means of payment.
Which theme do you prefer?
Updated on the 29th of August 2025