Beethoven or birsds: the new euro banknotes

German composer Ludwig van Beethoven and Greek-American Soprano are posthumously vying for a protagonist role on new euro banknotes against birds.

Yes, you read it correctly. In a process that began in 2021 to fully redesign euro banknotes for the first time in over 20 years, voting has narrowly selected two motifs for the new bills. “We are excited to present these real-life motifs that reflect our commitment to Europe and celebrate its cultural heritage and natural environment,” said ECB President Christine Lagarde. “The new banknotes will symbolise our shared European identity and the diversity that makes us strong.” The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) has selected motifs to illustrate the two possible themes for future euro banknotes, an ECB statement reveals. 

The ECB explained the two motifs:

1. “European culture” focuses on shared cultural spaces and prominent Europeans.”
2. “Rivers and birds” focuses on the resilience and diversity of the natural world, complemented by the European institutions.

The two potential protagonists of the new banknotes were two multidisciplinary advisory groups from across the euro area. This aligns with the preferences on the themes expressed by more than 365,000 Europeans in public surveys conducted in summer 2023 and in focus groups held between December 2021 and March 2022.

The ECB also explained that the motifs are illustrative of several cultural activities and spaces, as well as iconic European personalities who contributed to the region’s cultural heritage.

“Their lives span six centuries, during which they lived, travelled, and worked across our continent, and their accomplishments have resonated around the world,” the official statement added.

And in the European Culture category are:

Why rivers and birds, you ask. “Rivers and birds” highlights the resilience and diversity of Europe’s natural ecosystems by showcasing different stages of rivers and various bird species, emphasising the importance of nature and environmental protection,· the ECB said.

“The European institutions featured on the banknotes remind us of the fundamental values of the European project, which also embraces environmental protection,” they added.

And the motifs for Rivers and Birds are:

What happens next? 

• In 2025, the ECB will establish a jury and launch a design contest, open to designers from across the European Union. 
• The ECB will continue to involve the public and experts to ensure the designs selected are relatable to Europeans of all ages. 
• In 2026, the ECB will ask the public to choose their preferred design from a shortlist.