The writer Miguel de Cervantes, as a prominent representative of European culture, is one of the potential figures for the new 50-euro bill, which will be preselected in 2026 by the European Central Bank (ECB) based on designs submitted in a competition to be held this year, with the public invited to give its opinion.
The ECB Governing Council has selected two themes and corresponding motifs for illustrating the future bills. The first is “European Culture,” featuring a prominent European figure who has contributed to the development of European cultural heritage on the front, and cultural landmarks that have shaped Europe’s identity over the centuries on the back.
The second theme, “Rivers and Birds,” reflects the resilience and diversity of Europe’s natural ecosystems. The front of these bills will depict river sections and bird species emphasizing the importance of nature conservation and environmental protection. The back will feature various European institutions to remind of the fundamental values of the European project.
Thus, within the cultural theme, the 50-euro bill would show Cervantes on the front, and a library on the back, with a few adults reading paper and electronic books and a boy and girl trying to reach a book on a shelf.
Moreover, within the “European Culture: Common Cultural Landmarks” theme, the 5-euro bill will feature Maria Callas; the 10-euro, Ludwig van Beethoven; the 20-euro, Marie Curie; the 100-euro, Leonardo da Vinci; and the 200-euro, Bertha von Suttner.
For the “Rivers and Birds: Strong through Diversity” theme, the 5-euro bill will show birds in a mountain spring; the 10-euro, at a waterfall; the 20-euro, in a river valley; the 50-euro, in a winding river; the 100-euro, at a river mouth; and the 200-euro, in a marine landscape.
The decision was influenced by the suggestions of two advisory groups composed of experts from various disciplines and countries within the euro area, based on the preferences of more than 365,000 Europeans surveyed.
“We are pleased to present these motifs, which are so true to reality and express our commitment to Europe and our appreciation for its cultural heritage and nature,” said ECB President Christine Lagarde, who added, “The new banknotes will symbolize our common identity and the diversity that makes Europe strong.”
Once the appearance and production method of the new banknotes are finalized, it will take several years before the first new bills are issued, according to the ECB’s statement.