The European Central Bank announces the debut of a new 50 euro banknote that reflects a more modern, representative, and inclusive identity. The transformation of all euro banknotes introduced in 2002 includes new designs to better showcase the diverse faces of Europe.
The process to define the new graphics was thorough and involved experts, focus groups, and public consultations to establish aesthetic and conceptual guidelines for the future series. Two distinct themes have been chosen to represent Europe on the new 50 euro banknote, highlighting cultural and naturalistic aspects.
The Cultural Theme: Cervantes Takes Center Stage
Under the theme of “European culture,” the new 50 euro banknote will honor the concept of libraries as spaces of knowledge and inclusion. The prominent face on the banknote will be that of the Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes, known for his masterpiece “Don Quixote.” Cervantes symbolizes the intertwining of historical memory and intellectual openness.
The reverse side of the banknote will feature a modern library with adult readers, some engrossed in physical books and others using digital devices. This image aims to blend European literary tradition with technological progress, emphasizing the social function of libraries as public places for learning, discussion, and cultural access.
The banknote, one of the most circulated in the euro area, aspires to represent a recognizable symbol of cultural unity while still acknowledging national heritage.
A River and a White Stork: Paying Tribute to European Nature
Under the second theme of “rivers and birds,” the European Central Bank seeks to highlight the biodiversity and geography of the continent through evocative naturalistic subjects. The new 50 euro banknote will depict a winding river flowing through an open valley, with a white stork in flight overhead. This image not only appeals aesthetically but also institutionally refers to the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg.
The white stork, symbolizing harmony and environmental balance, has been chosen to convey the idea of natural justice, order, and continuity between generations. The river, a common element in European cultures, represents the connection between people, territories, and traditions. The iconographic ensemble of the banknote is designed to suggest cohesion and responsibility toward the Union’s environmental future.
When Will the New 50 Euro Banknote Arrive?
The process of revamping the banknotes commenced in 2021, with a gradual implementation expected. A jury will be appointed in 2025 to select designs from European artists through an international graphic competition.
The final designs will be announced in 2026, but the actual circulation of the new banknotes may occur between 2027 and 2029, considering printing times, security tests, and distribution logistics. In the meantime, the current banknotes will remain valid and coexist during a transitional period with the new ones.
The New 5 to 200 Euro Banknotes: Symbols, Faces, and Landscapes
Similarly, other denominations will undergo a transformation, aligned with the chosen thematic threads. Each banknote will have two versions, one focusing on cultural elements and the other on naturalistic themes, each with distinct but complementary visual elements.
Under the “European culture” theme:
- 5 euro: Maria Callas on the front – street artists on the back;
- 10 euro: Ludwig van Beethoven – a young choir and a music festival;
- 20 euro: Marie Curie – a classroom with books and students;
- 100 euro: Leonardo da Vinci – children and adults visiting an exhibition;
- 200 euro: Bertha von Suttner – a tree-lined square as an intergenerational meeting place.
Under the “rivers and birds” theme:
- 5 euro: mountain spring with the wallcreeper;
- 10 euro: waterfall with the kingfisher;
- 20 euro: river valley with a colony of bee-eaters;
- 100 euro: muddy estuary with the avocet, a symbol of observation and vigilance;
- 200 euro: open sea with the northern gannet, emblem of resilience and transparency.
Each image is chosen to evoke not only natural beauty but also the functions of the European institutions to which they are associated.
