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The European Central Bank’s plans for a new generation of euro banknotes are entering a crucial phase, with a final design decision expected next year. However, consumers will still need to wait several years before the redesigned notes appear in their wallets.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is making steady progress on the development of a new series of euro banknotes. After unveiling 10 proposed designs earlier this year, the institution has now completed a major public consultation that drew participation from more than nine million people across Europe.
The next major milestone is expected at the end of 2026, when the ECB’s Governing Council is set to select the final design for the future euro notes.
Despite the advancing timeline, the new banknotes are not expected to enter circulation anytime soon. The ECB currently anticipates that the revised currency will be introduced in the early 2030s. Until then, the existing euro banknotes will remain fully valid and continue to be used throughout the euro area.
Two Themes Under Consideration
The redesign centres on two broad themes: “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds.”
The cultural theme highlights Europe’s shared heritage and influential historical figures, while the nature-inspired concept focuses on the continent’s biodiversity through depictions of rivers and bird species. The designs aim to reflect both Europe’s diversity and its common identity.
The 10 shortlisted proposals emerged from a Europe-wide design competition. More than 1,200 graphic designers applied to participate, with 25 selected to develop detailed concepts. An independent jury of 21 experts from various fields ultimately chose the designs presented to the public.
Existing Notes Will Keep Their Value
The ECB has stressed that holders of current euro banknotes will not need to exchange their cash once the new series is introduced.
Existing notes are expected to remain in circulation alongside the new banknotes, meaning no mandatory swap is planned. Consumers can therefore continue using and storing their current euro notes without concern about losing value.
Focus on Security and Accessibility
The redesign is about more than appearance. The ECB intends to incorporate enhanced security features to make counterfeiting more difficult and allow banknotes to be authenticated more easily.
Accessibility is also a key objective. The new series is expected to include features that make the notes easier to use for people with visual impairments.
In addition, environmental considerations are playing a significant role in the project. The ECB aims to improve the durability of banknotes while exploring more sustainable materials and production methods to reduce the environmental footprint associated with cash.
Public Feedback to Shape Final Choice
Following the conclusion of the online consultation on 21 September, the ECB is now analysing the results. The Governing Council will consider public feedback alongside recommendations from the expert jury and technical assessments before selecting the winning design.
Once a final concept is chosen, the banknotes will undergo further development and testing before mass production can begin.
While the ECB has not announced a specific launch date, it has made clear that the rollout will take place several years after the final design selection. For now, Europe’s single currency will look exactly as citizens know it today.
- source: heute.at/picture: Design proposal E by Myrsini Vardopoulou. The illustrations show concepts for possible future euro banknotes, not their final design. © European Central Bank 2026.
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