In recent years, the world has seen a clear trend: traditional portraits of historical figures on banknotes are giving way to cultural, natural, and architectural symbols. This transformation reflects a changing perception of national identity and a desire to show a more inclusive representation of a country through the paper we hold.
Countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and Australia are leading the way.
UK: Cluttered with Historical Figures
The Bank of England has opened a massive public debate.
From July 2025, the BoE will accept proposals from members of the public to “refresh” the Series H banknote series. Previously, the notes featured Sir Winston Churchill (£5), Jane Austen (£10), J.M.W. Turner (£20) and Alan Turing (£50).
The month-long consultation process will cover topics beyond portraits: architecture, nature, sport, culture, food, even cinema and transport such as Stonehenge, the DNA helix, the Premier League, and British wildlife.
For the first time since 1970, the banknotes could do without famous figures, in favour of symbols that unite society and reflect modern British identity.
Eurozone: Bridges, Birds, and Great Europeans
The euro, created in 2002, initially avoided personalities altogether, preferring images of bridges and architectural styles.
Yet at the beginning of 2025, the European Central Bank announced a competition; a vote between two concepts:
- “European Culture”, outstanding Europeans: Marie Curie, Beethoven, Leonardo da Vinci and others with corresponding cultural backdrops.
- “Rivers and Birds”: images of nature and elements of European institutions.
The new banknotes are planned to be in circulation no earlier than 2026 after mass production. This approach demonstrates a desire for symbols that are close to people on an emotional and cultural level.
Japan: A Tradition of Faces and Artistic Motifs
Japan, however, is opting for a model of balance.
In July 2024, the Bank of Japan issued a new series of banknotes featuring three historical figures: Shibasaburo Kitasato (¥1,000), Umeko Tsuda (¥5,000), and Eiichi Shibusawa (¥10,000). Tokyo is also featuring unrelated images on the back of each paper note: Hokusai’s famous Great Wave, wisteria flowers, and the facade of Tokyo Station.
3D holograms and tactile markings for the visually impaired were also used. In this way, Japan maintains a connection with history whilst enriching the banknotes with cultural and naturalistic touches accessible to all of the Japanese population.
Australia: Long Thoughts on the Monarchy
Another example is Australia, where in 2023 it was announced that the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II will be replaced on the $5 note. The new design will contain symbols and reflect Aboriginal identity, following consultation with indigenous peoples.
Global Change: What’s the Fuss?
- Expanding the National Narrative. Portraits only provide a glimpse of a limited number of faces usually men, politicians, scientists, but cultural and natural images contribute to a diverse identity.
- Inclusivity and Representation. Culture and nature are perceived as more universal symbols for the strata of society such as gender, ethnicity, age than portraits.
- Improved Design and Security. Modern banknotes are not only images, but also functional symbols: holograms, tactile marks, large numbers. Cultural motifs fit organically into such elements.
- Political Context. The changes are motivated by the rejection of colonial or odious symbols, both in Australia and in the UK, where the images of Churchill and Turing do not reflect modern British diversity.
What’s Next?
- The Bank of England is seeking proposals by the end of July 2025, after making a formal decision in 2026.
- The ECB plans to complete the competition and design of the euro-kudomj by 2026, with release later.
- Japan will continue issuing a modern series using cultural motifs alongside portraits.
- Australia’s long-term move to a new $5 note featuring Native American culture will circulate in production in a few years.
The world of faceless banknotes is not a rejection of history, but an expansion of the narrative. Cultural and natural images reflect a broader vision of national identity, universality, and relevance.
At the same time, redesigns enhance the security of each national currencies whilst keeping up with the contemporary political challenges of historical representation.
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