Gone are the times and styles of banknotes. The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing to transform euro banknotes with an exceptional design competition. A unique opportunity for graphic designers from all over Europe to leave their mark on the currency used by hundreds of millions of people. Two themes will compete: European culture and Rivers and birds . At the end of the process, only one design will be chosen to shape the identity of future banknotes.
A large-scale participatory project
The ECB solicited the opinion of citizens through a wide-ranging public consultation, in which over 365,000 Europeans took part. They were invited to vote on proposed themes and express their preferences for the visual orientation of future banknotes.
Then the motifs for each denomination were chosen. With the theme of European culture, the 10 euro bill is dedicated to music. The front will feature the composer Ludwig van Beethoven and the back " Children's choir and young adults sing at music festival ". For its counterpart at Fleuves et oiseaux, the waterfall is in the spotlight. Graphic designers are asked to propose a kingfisher near a waterfall or natural pool and on the back the European Commission .
A competition open to Europeans
This year, the ECB is launching its graphic design competition, open to designers from all over the European Union. A jury will select designs, ensuring that they are evocative for Europeans of all ages. Then, in 2026, a public consultation will be held to gather citizens' preferences on the shortlisted designs.
This will be followed by the progressive production and circulation of this new generation of banknotes.
Beyond their design, the new banknotes will incorporate advanced technologies to improve their durability and reinforce their protection against counterfeiting. A technical as well as an artistic challenge.
