Leonardo da Vinci could soon grace the euro banknotes we use daily. The European Central Bank (ECB) has announced that the renowned Renaissance genius is among the figures being considered for the new series of euro banknotes. The 100-euro note, dedicated to museums and exhibitions, may feature his iconic image. The ECB will launch a design competition in 2025, with the final designs expected in 2026.
This news resonates deeply in Tuscany, Leonardo’s birthplace. The region is rich with landmarks tied to his life: Vinci, his hometown; Bacchereto, where his paternal grandmother lived and where he first experimented with glazed ceramics; and the San Lorenzo Lake in Fucecchio, a reservoir designed by Leonardo himself. Other sites include the Mill of Doccia, the Valley of the Mills, and San Pantaleo, known for its fossil-rich terrain.
A New Era for Euro Banknotes
ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized the need for modernization: “After more than twenty years, it is time to refresh the appearance of our banknotes so that Europeans of all ages and backgrounds can see themselves reflected in them.” Since the euro’s introduction on January 1, 2002, this is the first major redesign.
Public input played a key role in shaping the new themes. The ECB’s Governing Council selected two main concepts: “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds.” The former celebrates cultural heritage through iconic figures and landmarks, while the latter symbolizes Europe’s natural diversity and institutional foundations.
“We are excited to present these themes, which capture real-life images reflecting our commitment to Europe and celebrating its cultural and natural heritage,” Lagarde said. “The new banknotes will symbolize our shared European identity and the diversity that strengthens us.”
Iconic Figures and Natural Beauty
Under the “European Culture” theme, several historical figures join Leonardo da Vinci in the spotlight:
- 5-euro note: Maria Callas (opera singer)
- 10-euro note: Ludwig van Beethoven (composer)
- 20-euro note: Marie Curie (scientist)
- 50-euro note: Miguel de Cervantes (writer)
- 100-euro note: Leonardo da Vinci (polymath)
- 200-euro note: Bertha von Suttner (peace activist)
The “Rivers and Birds” theme highlights Europe’s natural beauty:
- 5-euro note: Mountain spring with a wallcreeper bird
- 10-euro note: Waterfall and a kingfisher
- 20-euro note: River valley with bee-eaters
- 50-euro note: Meandering river with a white stork
- 100-euro note: River estuary with a pied avocet
- 200-euro note: Marine landscape with a northern gannet
The Design Process and What Comes Next
In 2025, the ECB will appoint a judging panel and open the design competition to artists from across the European Union. The final designs will be unveiled in 2026, with new banknotes entering circulation a few years later.
Piero Cipollone, a member of the ECB’s Executive Board, stressed the ongoing importance of physical currency: “The development of new banknotes demonstrates our commitment to cash, both now and in the future. Banknotes symbolize our European unity, and with these new designs, we celebrate our shared history and our dedication to a sustainable future.”
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