European Central Bank announces the date for new euro banknotes
The European Central Bank has announced that the next-generation euro banknotes, which will incorporate the results of public surveys, will be put into circulation in 2030.
According to the official announcement by the European Central Bank, the next-generation euro banknotes, shaped following surveys with millions of participants, will enter circulation in 2030, with a final design decision to be made by the end of the year.
Design Process and Public Survey
While determining the final design, the results of the public survey held between July 23 and September 21, 2026, with the participation of approximately 10 million people, will be taken into account.
ECB President Christine Lagarde stated that this extraordinary participation clearly demonstrates Europeans' interest in the banknotes they will use in the future.
Main Themes and Proposals
For the design, 10 different proposals under two main themes, European Culture and Rivers and Birds, were voted on.
While figures such as Ludwig van Beethoven and Marie Curie stand out under the European Culture theme, the Rivers and Birds theme focuses on the natural ecosystem and EU institutions.
Security and Environmental Goals
The next-generation euro banknotes will be equipped with advanced security features that will make counterfeiting more difficult.
The goals include reducing environmental damage in production, extending the lifespan of the banknotes, and increasing accessibility for the visually impaired.
Status of Current Banknotes
Current euro banknotes will continue to remain valid when the new series enters circulation.
Today, the euro is used as a common currency by approximately 358 million people in 21 European Union countries.