The European Central Bank (ECB) officially launched the challenge to give a new face to the scores in euros. Since Tuesday, a public contest is open to choose the new drawings, in an initiative that wants to renew the image of the single border. Graphic designers throughout the European Union have until August 18 to submit their proposals to the new Euro note.
Of “eras and styles” to a more current Europe
The notes we have known today, in circulation since 2002, have as their theme “eras and styles”. These show windows, doors and bridges that represent various European architectural periods. But the ECB understands that it is time to modernize and show a more current, plural and vibrant Europe. “The euro is more than a currency; symbolizes European unity and diversity,” recalls Christine Lagarde, president of the ECB, cited by the newspaper As.
European culture: honor the heritage of the continent
To shape this change, the ECB decided to bet on two themes. The first, “European culture”, celebrates spaces, activities and historical figures that marked the continent. In the 5 euros note, for example, appear street artists and Maria Callas; 20 euros, teachers and students inspired by Marie Curie; and in 50 euros, reading in libraries with Miguel de Cervantes as a reference.
Rivers and birds: an appeal to environmental protection
The second theme chosen is “rivers and birds”, which values the European nature and the challenge of environmental protection. Each value brings related images, such as a waterfall and the Blue Martim-Pestinator bird in the 10 euros, or a maritime landscape with wild gender in the 200 euros. These are symbols that highlight the resistance of rivers and the diversity of birds on our continent, according to the same source.
The selection process: two phases to choose the best designs
The contest will take place in two phases. First, interested parties will have to meet certain technical requirements and show their professional path. Then the selected advance to the second stage, where they will have to present their final designs. A panel of experts will evaluate all proposals and choose up to five finalists for each theme.
In addition to the expert’s evaluation, the ECB will give the public voice so that he can give his opinion on the finalist proposals before the final decision. The definitive verdict will be up to the Central Bank Council of Government, which should be taken at the end of 2026. After chosen and produced, the new notes will only begin to circulate a few years later, ensuring a careful and gradual transition.
More than notes, a symbol of union
Not just renewing notes, this initiative aims to involve professionals and citizens in building a symbol that truly represents today’s Europe, according to the. A euro who maintains tradition but looks with hope for the future.
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