The European Central Bank has unveiled designs that could replace the current look of its banknotes, which have not changed since the euro was introduced in 2002, writes Politico.
Now the public can have their say on whether they want to see historical European figures, rivers or birds on their money in the future.
The first set of potential banknote designs features American-Greek opera singer Maria Callas, German composer Beethoven, French-Polish scientist Marie Curie-Skłodowska, Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Italian artist and mathematician Leonardo da Vinci and Austrian pacifist Bertha von Suttner. The reverse of the banknotes features European cultural sites such as libraries, universities and city squares. The ECB said the design reflects iconic European figures who have contributed to the creation of Europe’s cultural heritage and whose achievements have resonated around the world.
Meanwhile, a design variant featuring rivers and birds has been created for nature lovers, which the ECB said reflects the diversity and resilience of Europe’s ecosystems, and thus highlights the importance of protecting nature and the environment. The banknotes feature a mountain stream with a rock crevice, a waterfall with a kingfisher, a river valley with bee-eaters, a river bend with a white stork, a river mouth with avocets, and a seascape with northern terns. The reverse shows the buildings of EU institutions, such as the European Parliament and the European Commission.
It is possible that both the EU and the UK will feature kingfishers on their banknotes,
as the UK has also put a series of animals up for public scrutiny to choose from.
The ECB has submitted ten designs for public comment until the 21st of September. However, the final say will lie with the ECB, whose Governing Council is free to choose which design appeals to it most by the end of the year. The Council will gather a wealth of information and will consider a technical assessment, the results of two surveys (including a public survey) and the decision of a design jury before making a decision.
ECB President Christine Lagarde said that euro banknotes are more than just a means of payment – they are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe.
You can vote on the design of the euro banknotes here.
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