The euro banknotes currently in circulation may change in the coming years. The European Central Bank is preparing a new series in what will be the biggest redesign of banknotes since the euro came into circulation in 2002.
Until now, euro banknotes have avoided real people’s faces. The option included bridges, windows and doors, in an attempt to represent the European union without favoring any country.
According to the Spanish newspaper, this principle could change with the new series. Among the themes under analysis is “European culture”, with historical and artistic figures linked to the continent’s identity.
Cervantes could appear on the 50 euro note
Among the names chosen as a possible motive is Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, author of Don Quixote.
The Spanish writer was associated with the 50 euro note, within the theme dedicated to libraries and written culture, according to information released by the European Central Bank.
The choice would have great visibility, as the R$50 note is one of the most used on a daily basis in stores, ATMs and cash payments.
No final decision yet
Despite this, the presence of Cervantes on the R$50 note has not yet been finalized. The ECB has selected possible reasons to guide the design competition, but the final decision is only expected to be made by the end of 2026.
The selected designers have to submit proposals and then there will be a public consultation with European citizens.
Only after this process will the Governing Council choose the final design of future banknotes.
There is another option on the table
In addition to the series dedicated to European culture, there is a second possibility focused on nature.
This theme includes rivers and birds, with the aim of highlighting Europe’s natural diversity and the importance of environmental protection.
Thus, future notes can follow a cultural line, with historical figures, or an approach more linked to nature.
Current notes remain valid
Even after the final decision, the new notes will not reach Europeans’ wallets immediately.
The ECB itself admits that entry into circulation will only happen several years after the designs are chosen, due to the production and issuance process.
Therefore, current banknotes will continue to circulate normally and maintain their validity.
500 euro note should not return
The new series must maintain the absence of the 500 euro note, which was no longer issued due to concerns associated with its use in illicit activities.
The 500 euro notes that still exist remain valid, but are no longer part of the new issues.
In practice, the change will be gradual and without immediate impact for those who use physical money on a daily basis.
Euro prepares new image
The ECB’s objective is to make banknotes closer to citizens, more secure and adapted to the future.
The renewal also comes in a context in which physical money continues to be defended as an essential means of payment, despite the growth of digital payments.
If the cultural proposal goes ahead, Miguel de Cervantes could become one of the most seen faces in Europe, when he appears on the 50 euro note.
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