Leonardo da Vinci May Become the Face of Future Euro Banknotes

Leonardo da Vinci might appear on future euro banknotes. This is part of a new effort to update the currency's design.

Europeans Help Choose New Banknote Designs

The European Central Bank (ECB) is letting the public help decide the new look for euro banknotes. People can choose between two themes: "European culture" or "Rivers and birds." This is the first time the euro will get a complete redesign since it was first issued in 2002.

A survey is open until September 21, 2026, where people can share their opinions. The ECB has shortlisted ten designs from an international competition.

One design proposal for the 100-euro bill features Leonardo da Vinci. Other cultural figures include opera singer Maria Callas on the 5-euro bill and Ludwig van Beethoven on 10-euro notes. The back of the da Vinci note could show people visiting art exhibitions.

Alternatively, the "Rivers and birds" theme shows European birds and river scenes. The reverse side would feature images of modern European Union institutions.

This image is part of design proposal E by Myrsini Vardopoulou. An independent jury selected it for consideration.

Reinforcing Shared Identity

In the past, euro notes avoided specific cultural references from any single country. However, these new designs aim to tell stories about the entire continent.

Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, noted that euro banknotes are more than just money. She said they are a clear expression of Europe. She believes the new designs will combine beauty and meaning to strengthen a shared European identity.

The public survey results will be combined with findings from another EU poll. The EU Governing Council will make the final decision later this year. This decision will consider public input, the jury's opinion, and a technical assessment. The new bills will then go into production, featuring improved security and accessibility for visually impaired people.