The renewal of the design of euro banknotes for the first time since 2002. For this reason the ECB called professional graphic designers from all EU Member States. To participate in a public design competition, with the aim of fully renewing the European currency artist. The ECB now considers that the time has come for an artistic redefinition of the euro, which better reflects modern Europe and its cultural diversity.
After consulting with experts and citizens – which started in 2021 – two themes were selected to form the basis for the redesign of new banknotes: “European culture” and “rivers and birds”.
Issue 1: European Culture
This theme aims to highlight the landmarks, historical personalities, cultural practices and collective identity that have shaped European culture over the centuries. According to the ECB, the proposed content for each banknote is:
5 euros: The art of the show – Maria Callas, street artists present theater, dance and music to passersby.
10 euro: Music – Ludwig van Beethoven, children’s choir sing at a music festival.
20 euros: Education – Marie Kouri, a school or university teaching scene with students and books.
50 euros: Libraries – Miguel de Cervantes, adults and children read in a natural or digital form in a public library.
100 euros: Museums & Exhibitions – Leonardo da Vinci, adults and children admire works of art at contemporary or outdoor exhibitions.
200 euros: Public spaces – Berta von Zutner (peace), citizens talk and interact with squares with trees and children’s activities.
Subject 2: Rivers and Birds
The second theme focuses on Europe’s natural ecosystem and aims to promote the biodiversity and ecological resilience of the rivers and birds of Epirus. At the same time promotes the message of environmental protection. The proposed design includes:
5 euros: Source in mountainous landscape – butterfly of the rocks, with the background of the European Parliament.
10 euros: Waterfall – Blue Alkioni next to water stream, with the European Commission building.
20 euros: River with sandy bank – bee -eatery colony, and the ECB headquarters.
50 euro: River with meanders – stork on flight, referring to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
100 euro: estuary and wetlands – Avoctta over wetland, next to the EU Council
200 euros: Maritime landscape – flock of wild goats fly over ocean, with the building of the European Court of Auditors.
By experts in popular vote
Those of the designers who applied for selected will proceed with the second phase where they will be invited to submit comprehensive graphic design proposals. The projects will be evaluated by an international design committee in design, which will select up to five drawings per thematic.
Subsequently, the final phase will include public vote by EU citizens to determine the prevailing issue and plan for the official circulation of new banknotes, which are expected to be released in 2026.
