Major change to how UK banknotes look as Bank of England reveals design ideas

The Bank of England has revealed some examples of new banknote designs it has received from the public.

The central bank has been asking for ideas of what people would like to see on the next series of banknotes, in what would be the biggest redesign in 50 years.

Some of the designs sent in include a dolphin, the Sycamore Gap tree, and the Angel of the North sculpture in Gateshead. The BBC reports that thousands of responses have been sent to the Bank of England.

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Victoria Cleland, chief cashier at the Bank of England, said there has been “lots of interest and engagement from young people too”.

She added: "The reaction shows how important banknotes are as way to celebrate the UK and how much we have to celebrate." The final decision on the new banknote designs will be made by Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey.

The Bank of England previously identified six potential themes for its new banknotes, including: notable historical figures, architecture and landmarks, arts, culture and sport, noteworthy events in history, innovation, and nature.

The public can also suggest other themes for the Bank of England to consider. Depending on which theme is selected, it may then seek further feedback from the public on the specific images that could be used to show the chosen theme.

The next series of banknotes will still feature a portrait of King Charles, but no other living person will be represented. More than 4.7 billion Bank of England notes are in circulation, collectively worth around £86 billion.

Currently, Winston Churchill features on the back of the £5 banknote, Jane Austen on the £10, JMW Turner on the £20 and Alan Turing on the £50.

The Bank of England started introducing polymer banknotes in 2016 - before this, they were made of paper. Polymer banknotes feature enhanced security measures, such as see-through window and holograms, to make them harder to counterfeit.

The first of the current “G” series notes was the £5 issued in September 2016, followed by the £10 in September 2017, the £20 in February 2020 and the £50 note in June 2021.

Ms Cleland previously said: “Banknotes are more than just an important means of payment – they serve as a symbolic representation of our collective national identity and an opportunity to celebrate the UK.

“I am really keen to hear what themes the public would like to see represented on the next series of notes.” The consultation will close at 11.59pm on July 31.