Euro banknote design survey draws nearly 10 million participants
A total of 9.96 million people took part in the European Central Bank survey on the future design of euro banknotes between July 23 and September 21, 2026. The consultation gathered public views on ten shortlisted proposals covering European culture and natural themes.
Two-thirds under thirty-five
Participation in the online survey reached 2.6 percent of the euro area population, with two-thirds of all respondents under the age of 35. More than 1.1 million people in Italy contributed feedback on the ten shortlisted proposals.
The choices centered on two overarching thematic directions: “European culture” and “Rivers and birds.”
In parallel, an independent research company conducted a separate survey using identical questions on a representative sample of euro area residents.
Results from both public engagement exercises are being combined to assist the European Central Bank Governing Council in selecting the final design concept around the end of 2026.
Gradual rollout in the 2030s
Following the Governing Council's decision, the selected concept will undergo technical refinement and adaptation for banknote production.
The upcoming series will introduce enhanced security features alongside improvements in accessibility and environmental sustainability.
Euro area authorities plan to roll out the redesigned physical currency gradually starting in the early 2030s.
Existing euro banknotes will retain legal tender status and circulate alongside the new series.
High turnout, cosmetic mandate
Engaging nearly ten million citizens is a clear public relations win for the Eurosystem.
Yet polling aesthetic preferences sidesteps the core dilemma of declining cash usage in everyday transactions.
A rollout stretching into the 2030s risks delivering physical updates long after digital payments dominate.