European banknotes could soon get a completely new face – for the first time in more than 20 years. The process is already underway, and the decisions made these months will shape the money that citizens across Europe will use every day in the future.
The process of redesigning euro banknotes is entering a crucial phase. At the end of April, the deadline for the international competition for the design of the new series expires, which begins the period in which the future appearance of the euro will be decided.
The aim of this change is to refresh the appearance of banknotes more than two decades after their introduction, while maintaining high standards of security, availability and environmental sustainability.
The euro is changing for the first time since the big changes
The euro was put into circulation on January 1, 2002, and the first significant upgrade took place with the “Europa” series, which has been gradually introduced since 2013.
That series brought more advanced materials and improved protection against forgery, but now it goes a step further – towards a more modern and symbolically stronger design.
The new design should reflect the European identity
The modernization plan was announced as early as 2021, with a clear goal: banknotes should better represent modern European identity.
The emphasis is not only on aesthetics. The idea is for the euro to become an even stronger symbol of common values, but also of the diversity of the countries that use it.
Which banknotes will remain in circulation?
The new series will retain six denominations – from 5 to 200 euros.
The 500-euro banknote, which was previously withdrawn from circulation due to security reasons and infrequent use, will not be returned.
These are the possible motifs on the new banknotes
When it comes to visual identity, two main thematic units are defined:
– European culture
– rivers and birds
Designers participating in the competition must come up with solutions that are recognizable, functional and visually striking, and at the same time integrated into these themes.
Citizens will have a say in the selection
After the competition closes, an independent expert jury will select up to ten best proposals.
The Governing Council of the European Central Bank will then decide on them, and during 2026, public consultations are planned in which citizens will be involved.
When are the new banknotes coming?
A final decision on the layout is expected by the end of the year.
Only after that comes the production phase, while the actual entry of new banknotes into circulation will take several more years.
Although the changes will not be immediately visible in citizens’ wallets, the process has already begun and marks the beginning of a new era for the euro.
The new design will not only be an aesthetic change, but also a symbol of the future of Europe – its values, identity and community.
