The European Central Bank (ECB) is preparing to launch redesigned euro banknotes featuring some of Europe’s most influential cultural and scientific figures. Among them are Leonardo da Vinci, Maria Callas, and Ludwig van Beethoven, representing the continent’s artistic, literary, and intellectual heritage.
ECB expects that the final design proposal for the future euro banknotes will be announced by the end of 2026. The timeline for production and issuance is still to be defined, but will in any case require a few years after that date.
The ECB’s Governing Council selected “European Culture” as one of two central themes, focusing on figures who shaped European identity.
Recognizing Europe’s legacy
Each new banknote will feature a historical figure alongside a cultural scene representing their field of work. The €5 note will honor renowned Greek soprano Maria Callas, whose contributions to opera symbolize Europe’s performing arts tradition. She will be accompanied by an image of street performers entertaining the public.
Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the most celebrated composers in history, will appear on the €10 note, representing the power of music. His image will be paired with a choir of children, highlighting the role of music in uniting generations.
Marie Curie, a pioneer in scientific research and the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, will feature on the €20 note. She will be depicted alongside a classroom scene, emphasizing education and scientific discovery.
Le nuove banconote europee: tra Maria Callas e il picchio muraiolo. pic.twitter.com/s7XDZvUKK0
— Marco Cobianchi (@marcocobianchi) January 31, 2025
The €50 note will showcase Miguel de Cervantes, the Spanish writer best known for Don Quixote. His literary influence will be reflected in an image of people reading in a library, capturing Europe’s storytelling tradition.
Leonardo da Vinci, a Renaissance-era artist and inventor, will appear on the €100 note. His contributions to art and science will be highlighted with an illustration of people admiring artwork, symbolizing creativity and intellectual curiosity.
The €200 note will feature Bertha von Suttner, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning advocate for diplomacy and peace. Her image will be paired with a lively public square, representing dialogue and cooperation.
Public consultation and next steps
The ECB has engaged the public in the redesign process from the beginning. In 2021, a survey was conducted across eurozone countries to gather opinions on possible themes.
NOTICE TO THOSE SAVING CASH IN EURO
The euro banknotes are being redesigned! A design contest will be launched later this year, and the final designs are expected to be released in 2026. pic.twitter.com/39tRCJqrTg
— _Tahir Prime_ (@taheerprime) January 31, 2025
A follow-up survey conducted in mid-2023 received over 365,000 responses, which helped finalize the two themes: “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds.”
A design competition was launched in 2025, inviting artists from across Europe to create visuals for the new banknotes. Once a shortlist is selected, the public will again have the opportunity to provide input before the final designs are approved in 2026.
A modernized euro
The ECB states that the redesigned banknotes will celebrate European heritage and incorporate new security features and environmentally friendly materials. Officials indicate it will take several years before the new notes enter circulation.
The euro, introduced in 2002, is used by 20 countries and more than 340 million people. The redesign marks the first major update in over two decades, bringing cultural icons into the daily lives of millions.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
