BoE recommends wildlife shortlist for Series H banknotes
The Bank of England's Banknote Imagery Advisory Group has recommended a shortlist of UK wildlife for the Series H banknotes. This shortlist will form the basis for a second public consultation starting in June 2026.
Wildlife shortlist takes shape
The Banknote Imagery Advisory Group (BIAG) has recommended a shortlist of UK wildlife to the Governor for the second public consultation on Series H banknotes.
The proposed list is structured into three categories: Mammals, Birds, and Amphibians, insects & fish, aiming for variety across denominations.
A key discussion point involved the inclusion of the beaver, which, despite being a native species, is also Canada's national animal and might not be widely recognised.
Members debated whether to replace it with the brown hare, agreeing to seek additional expert views on this specific species choice.
The selection process adheres to guidelines requiring animals to be wild, inclusive, recognisable, varied, distinctive, and symbolic of the UK.
Consultation to inform Governor's choice
The recommended shortlist will now be shared with the Governor, preceding a public consultation scheduled from 3 June to 3 July 2026.
This consultation invites the public to choose which animals they wish to see featured on the new banknote series.
The BIAG emphasised the importance of clear communication regarding the rationale behind the shortlist and how public input will be used alongside the Bank's design criteria.
Following the consultation, the BIAG will recommend four primary images to the Governor, who will make the final decision, informed by public views and the Bank's objectives for secure banknote design and Home Nations representation.
A delicate balance for national symbols
The selection of banknote imagery is a complex task, balancing public appeal with symbolic representation.
The debate over the beaver highlights the challenge of finding universally recognised and appropriate national symbols for the UK.
The success of Series H will depend on how effectively these choices resonate with a diverse public while upholding the Bank's design integrity.