Nearly 10 million people across Europe participated in the ECB survey on future euro banknotes, providing insights to inform the final design decision by the Governing Council in late 2026.
Approximately 9.96 million people from Europe and beyond completed the European Central Bank’s (ECB) public survey on the future design of euro banknotes. This high participation demonstrates strong interest among Europeans in their banknotes, according to ECB President Christine Lagarde.
The survey, conducted between 23 July and 21 September 2026, received responses from all euro area countries and across all age groups, with two-thirds of responses from individuals under 35 years old. It focused on ten shortlisted design proposals themed around “European culture” and “Rivers and birds”.
In addition, an independent research company conducted a separate survey with a representative sample of the euro area population using the same questions. The combined results, along with recommendations from the Design Contest Jury and technical assessments, will guide the ECB Governing Council’s decision on the final design concept, expected by the end of 2026.
The ECB will not publish individual design proposal results at this stage. After the final decision, a detailed report including feedback and country-specific results will be made available.
Following the decision, the selected design will be further developed into actual banknotes, which will feature enhanced security, accessibility, and sustainability features. 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.
More information on the proposals and the selection process is available on the ECB’s dedicated webpage.
