Beethoven or birds: citizens to decide new euro banknote designs

European citizens will soon have a say in the visual identity of the euro, as the European Central Bank (ECB) has launched a public survey to determine the design of the next series of banknotes. The choices presented to the public include a portrait of composer Ludwig van Beethoven or depictions of birds, reflecting themes of "European culture" and "rivers and birds."

ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized the significance of the banknotes, stating, "The euro banknotes are more than a means of payment; they are one of Europe's most tangible expressions." She added that their designs, blending beauty and meaning, will reinforce a shared identity. Other proposed motifs feature notable figures like physicist Marie Curie and opera singer Maria Callas.

The survey, open until September 21, is part of a broader effort to ensure cash remains a secure, efficient, and citizen-friendly payment method. The ECB's Executive Board member Piero Cipollone highlighted the goal of preserving public access to cash and the freedom to choose payment methods.

These proposals emerged from an EU-wide design competition involving over 1,200 graphic designers. An independent jury of 21 experts narrowed down the submissions to ten finalists. The ECB will conduct a parallel survey with a representative sample of eurozone citizens, and the results from both will inform the final decision, expected from the ECB's Governing Council by the end of the year. The actual production and circulation of the new banknotes will follow several years later.