New euro banknotes: two themes and historical faces in the running

Context

TL;DR

• ECB redesigning euro banknotes with two main themes
• Themes: European culture or rivers and birds
• Final design choice expected by the end of 2026
• New notes will focus on security and sustainability

Key facts

• Project: Euro banknotes graphic renewal
• Decision Date: By the end of 2026
• Responsible: European Central Bank
• Theme 1: European culture featuring historical figures
• Theme 2: Rivers and birds representing nature
• Competition End: End of April 2026
• Project Launch: 2021

In brief

• Two themes in the running for the new euro banknotes
• European culture or nature: final choice by the end of 2026
• Maria Callas, Beethoven, and others among the proposed faces

Key facts

• What: Euro banknotes redesign
• When: Final decision by the end of 2026
• Where: Europe
• Who: European Central Bank
• Amount: Not specified

The European Central Bank (ECB) has accelerated the process of graphic renewal of euro banknotes. After years of announcements, the project has entered the decisive phase. There is no official date yet for the circulation, but two possible graphic lines have been defined that could characterize the future series.

The first proposed theme is 'European culture,' which aims to strengthen the common identity through symbolic figures of the continent. Among the names are Maria Callas for the 5 euro, Ludwig van Beethoven on the 10, Marie Curie on the 20, Miguel de Cervantes on the 50, Leonardo da Vinci on the 100, and Bertha von Suttner on the 200 euro.

The alternative is the theme 'Rivers and birds,' with naturalistic images designed to represent freedom of movement and absence of borders. Sources, rivers, and symbolic European species would become the protagonists of the new banknotes.

The renewal project, launched in 2021 at the initiative of President Christine Lagarde, also aims to make the notes more sustainable and inclusive, as well as secure. In 2025, a design competition was launched, which will close at the end of April 2026, when a jury will select the best proposals. This will be followed by a European public consultation and, by the end of the year, the final choice of the model.

Implications for cross-border workers

The new banknotes could have a significant impact on cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy. With the introduction of new designs, it may be necessary to update payment systems and automatic machines to accept the new banknotes. Furthermore, cross-border workers should be promptly informed about the changes to avoid confusion or problems in daily transactions.

Comparison with the current situation

Currently, euro banknotes have a uniform design with architectural elements representing various European styles. The new proposals introduce a radical change, shifting from buildings to historical figures or natural elements. This could make the banknotes more recognizable and meaningful for European citizens, including cross-border workers who live and work in different parts of Europe.

What if...

If the 'European culture' theme is chosen, cross-border workers could easily recognize the banknotes thanks to the famous faces represented. On the other hand, the 'Rivers and birds' theme could be more appreciated for its representation of nature and freedom of movement, values important to those who work in one country and live in another.

Procedure for introduction

Once the winning proposal is chosen, the ECB will establish the issuance times of the new banknotes. This process could take a few months, during which the old banknotes will continue to be valid. Cross-border workers should monitor official updates to be ready for the arrival of the new banknotes.

Useful tools

To stay updated on the news regarding euro banknotes, cross-border workers can use the currency converter available on the site. This tool allows for easy conversion of amounts between euros and Swiss francs, taking into account exchange rate fluctuations.

Operational details

Practical Analysis: Implications for Cross-Border Workers

The new euro banknotes could have several implications for cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy. Here are some aspects to consider:

Security and Authenticity

The new banknotes will be designed to be more secure and difficult to counterfeit. This is a crucial aspect for cross-border workers who make daily transactions. The new security features could include tactile elements, advanced holograms, and special inks that change color.

Sustainability

The renewal project also aims to make the banknotes more sustainable. This could mean the use of eco-friendly materials or low-impact production processes. For environmentally conscious cross-border workers, this could be a positive aspect.

Inclusivity

The new banknotes aim to be more inclusive, representing a greater diversity of European cultures and traditions. This could help cross-border workers feel more connected to the European community and value their own cultural identity.

Comparison with Swiss Francs

While the euro banknotes are being renewed, cross-border workers should also consider the differences between euros and Swiss francs. Swiss banknotes already have advanced security features and a unique design. Cross-border workers should be aware of the differences to avoid confusion in daily transactions.

Concrete Scenarios

Suppose the theme 'European Culture' is chosen. Cross-border workers could easily recognize the banknotes thanks to the famous faces represented. This could facilitate transactions and reduce the risk of errors. On the other hand, if the theme 'Rivers and Birds' were chosen, cross-border workers could appreciate the representation of nature and freedom of movement, values important for those who work in one country and live in another.

Comparative Table

What to Do in Practice

Cross-border workers should monitor official updates from the ECB to be ready for the arrival of the new banknotes. Additionally, it is advisable to use currency conversion tools to stay updated on exchange rate fluctuations between euros and Swiss francs.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Action: what to do concretely

For cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy, it's important to be prepared for the arrival of the new euro banknotes. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do:

Step 1: Monitor official updates

The ECB will provide regular updates on the process of renewing the banknotes. Cross-border workers should regularly visit the ECB's official website to stay informed about the latest news.

Step 2: Update payment systems

If cross-border workers manage commercial activities or use automatic machines, it's important to update payment systems to accept the new banknotes. This might require installing new software or updating hardware.

Step 3: Learn about new security features

The new banknotes will have advanced security features. Cross-border workers should familiarize themselves with these features to easily recognize authentic banknotes and avoid fraud.

Step 4: Use currency conversion tools

To stay updated on exchange rate fluctuations between euros and Swiss francs, cross-border workers can use the currency conversion calculator available on the website. This tool allows for easy conversion of amounts between the two currencies.

Step 5: Prepare for the transition

Once the new banknotes are issued, cross-border workers should be ready to use the new banknotes in daily transactions. This might require a period of adaptation, but with the right information and tools, the transition can be smooth.

Useful tools

In addition to the currency conversion calculator, cross-border workers can use other tools available on the website to stay informed and prepared. For example, the salary comparator can help better understand salary differences between Italy and Switzerland, while the tax calculator can provide an estimate of taxes to be paid.

Conclusion

The new euro banknotes represent an important innovation that could have a significant impact on cross-border workers. With the right information and tools, cross-border workers can be ready for the transition and continue to manage their finances efficiently.

Source: varesenews.it