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    Will euro banknotes get a new design?

    The first complete redesign since 2002.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    Yes, but not yet. On 23 July 2026, the ECB unveiled ten shortlisted design proposals for the next series of euro banknotes. The public could comment in an online survey until 21 September 2026. The Governing Council is expected to decide on the design around the end of the year. After that, the design is developed and tested before production, so new notes come into circulation only in later years. Today's notes keep their value and circulate alongside the new ones.

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    Why

    1. The ECB press release of 23 July 2026 presents ten shortlisted designs.
    2. The ECB expects the final decision around the end of 2026.
    3. The ECB says notes from the current series will keep their value.

    Details

    The ECB says the new notes will have improved security features that are easier to check, also for visually impaired people. It will be the first complete redesign since euro notes were first issued in 2002.

    Tip

    Do not exchange your notes in a hurry. Old and new series will be valid side by side.

    What may differ

    The Bank of Finland says the new notes are due to be issued gradually from the early 2030s. Exact dates have not been set.

    Common misconception

    Current euro notes will become worthless when the new ones come.

    What actually happens

    The ECB says current notes keep their value and circulate alongside the new series.

    People also ask

    • What themes are planned for the new euro banknotes?
    • Are old euro banknotes still valid?
    • Is the 500 euro note still valid?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Payment rules and fees change, so check the official sources or your bank before you pay.

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