European Central Bank unveils proposed designs for future euro banknotes

The European Central Bank (ECB) has unveiled a series of design proposals for the next generation of euro banknotes. The new designs are centered around two primary themes: "European Culture" and "Rivers and Birds." The cultural theme features iconic historical figures, including Maria Callas for the 5-euro note, Ludwig van Beethoven for the 10-euro note, Marie Curie for the 20-euro note, Miguel de Cervantes for the 50-euro note, Leonardo da Vinci for the 100-euro note, and Bertha von Suttner for the 200-euro note. ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized that these designs are intended to strengthen the shared European identity by combining beauty with symbolic meaning.

There are ten total design proposals currently under consideration, with five options for each of the two themes. While the "European Culture" theme focuses on significant contributors to art, science, and history, the "Rivers and Birds" theme highlights European landscapes and biodiversity to represent a continent without physical borders. The ECB is now inviting citizens from across Europe to review these options and provide their feedback. This public consultation is part of an ongoing process to shape the aesthetic future of the currency used daily by millions across the Eurozone.