ECB unveils shortlisted designs for next euro banknote series

Brussels, Belgium. The European Central Bank has unveiled ten shortlisted design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes and launched a public survey for people across Europe.

The proposals are based on the themes of European culture and Rivers and birds, with specific motifs selected for each concept.

Design competition

The shortlisted proposals followed a European Union-wide competition that attracted more than 1,200 applications from graphic designers.

Twenty-five designers were invited to develop proposals for one or both themes. An independent jury of 21 experts in graphic design, communication, neuroscience and history, nominated by euro area central banks, selected the ten shortlisted proposals.

Public consultation

The ECB’s Governing Council has opened an online survey until September 21, 2026, allowing citizens across Europe to give their views on the designs.

An independent research company will also conduct a parallel survey with identical questions among a representative sample of euro area citizens.

Final design

“Euro banknotes are more than a means of payment – they are one of the most tangible expressions of Europe,” ECB President Christine Lagarde said.

“Through designs that combine beauty and meaning, they will reinforce our shared identity,” she added.

The ECB said it will publish a report on the findings of both surveys once the final design concept has been selected.