Nearly ten million people participated in ECB survey on new euro banknotes

Almost 10 million people across Europe and beyond participated in the European Central Bank (ECB) public survey on the future design of euro banknotes. The survey ran from 23 July to 21 September 2026 and sought opinions on ten shortlisted design proposals based on the themes “European culture” and “Rivers and birds”.

ECB President Christine Lagarde stated, “This amazing number shows how much interest Europeans have in their future banknotes. With them participating in the redesign process, an important step has been taken in preparing the next series of banknotes.”

The survey received strong participation across all euro area countries and age groups, with two-thirds of responses from individuals under 35. Data will be analyzed using standard statistical methods to ensure representativeness.

The results of this survey, along with a separate survey conducted by an independent research company, the recommendations of the Design Contest Jury, and a technical assessment, will inform the ECB Governing Council’s decision on the final design concept, expected around the end of 2026. The ECB will not publish individual design proposal results at this stage. A detailed report, including feedback and country-specific results, will be published after the decision.

Following the selection, the chosen design will be further developed into actual banknotes, featuring enhanced security, accessibility, and sustainability. The new banknotes are expected to enter circulation gradually from the early 2030s. Existing euro banknotes will remain valid and circulate alongside the new series.

For more information on the proposals and the selection process, visit the dedicated page on the ECB website.