New Euro Banknotes Are Coming: What You Need to Know

The euro has been a part of our wallets and daily lives since January 1, 2002 – a symbol of shared currency across Europe. Now, over two decades later, the familiar notes people have used for everything from coffee to travel are getting a long-awaited makeover.

The European Central Bank (ECB) has officially announced that a new series of euro banknotes will be unveiled by 2026, with the goal of releasing the redesigned notes by 2029. This marks the first major redesign of the euro since it was introduced.

But why now? And what will be different? Let’s take a look.

Out with the Old: Why the Euro Is Getting a New Look

The current euro banknotes are designed around the theme “Ages and Styles,” featuring illustrations of windows, doorways, and bridges that represent different architectural eras throughout European history. Each design element symbolizes openness, communication, and connection across Europe’s cultural heritage.

According to the ECB, the upcoming redesign is about much more than aesthetics. The new banknotes aim to connect better with Europeans, incorporate stronger security features, and reflect modern European values. The ECB conducted two rounds of public consultation across euro area countries in 2021 and 2023.

The results revealed that Europeans want banknotes that reflect culture, nature, and shared identity – not just historical monuments. Based on that feedback, the ECB selected "European culture" and "Rivers and birds" as the two final themes under consideration. ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized that cash remains a vital part of daily life across Europe:

“We are committed to cash. It is here to stay. That’s why we want to make our banknotes even more secure, resilient, and representative of all Europeans.”

What’s Changing – and What’s Staying

While the design themes and visuals will be updated, the denominations and euro identity will remain unchanged. Expect familiar values – €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200 – but with modern designs reflecting natural and cultural richness.

The ECB will collaborate with professional designers from the European Union in the coming year and finalize the themes in 2026, followed by the presentation of mock-ups. The launch of the redesigned banknotes is planned for around 2029, giving enough time for production, testing, and public readiness. As part of the redesign process, the ECB has opened a call for professional designers from across Europe to take part in shaping the future look of the euro.

As of 15 July 2025, interested applicants can submit their portfolios and proposals through the official application platform, which will remain open until 18 August 2025. The selected designers will help translate the chosen themes into visually compelling banknote concepts that reflect the diversity and unity of the euro area.

Once the design competition concludes, the public will have an opportunity to share their opinions on the shortlisted concepts. The final decision on the new euro banknote design is expected to be made by the ECB’s Governing Council by late 2026.

New Euro Banknotes May Boost Counterfeit Protection and Trust

One of the ECB’s top priorities is to ensure that euro banknotes remain a secure, innovative, and efficient means of payment. As reproduction technologies advance and counterfeit threats evolve, regularly developing new series of banknotes is standard practice for central banks worldwide.

The euro’s upcoming redesign is part of this ongoing effort, not just to stay ahead of counterfeiters, but also to make banknotes more relatable, inclusive, and environmentally friendly. From enhancing accessibility for the visually impaired to reducing environmental impact across the entire life cycle of the notes, the ECB’s cash strategy is about more than security – it’s about keeping cash relevant in a changing world.

Why This Matters for Currency Buyers and Sellers

For anyone dealing with physical cash, whether traveling, exchanging, or holding currency, the redesign matters for several reasons:

• Trust in the euro’s authenticity and resilience will increase.
• Older notes will remain valid, but over time, redesigned versions will dominate.
• New designs may initially affect demand due to curiosity, collectibility, or usability preferences.

If you're planning to travel to Europe, hold euros as part of a currency portfolio, or deal in international FX, it's helpful to stay ahead of these changes.

Banknotes of the Future

The euro remains the second-most-used currency in the world, and the upcoming redesign reflects the ECB’s commitment to keeping it relevant, secure, and widely accepted –both in Europe and globally. We’ll continue monitoring the ECB’s updates and mock-ups expected in 2026, so stay tuned to our news section for the latest developments.

As the euro evolves to become more secure, sustainable, and user-friendly, it’s a great reminder of the importance of trust and reliability in every currency transaction. At US First Exchange, we stay ahead of global currency trends, offering a fast, transparent, and secure way to buy or sell euros and other major and exotic currencies online.

Whether you're preparing for travel or simply exchanging funds, you can count on us for competitive, up-to-date rates and seamless service straight to your doorstep – no matter what changes come to the notes in your wallet.