About 148,000 people in Greece have taken part in a European Central Bank (ECB) public survey on the possible new design of euro banknotes, five days before the consultation closes, according to the Bank of Greece.
Across the eurozone, about 9 million people had participated in the survey as of Monday, September 14.
The ECB launched the public consultation after presenting 10 potential designs for the next series of euro banknotes in July. The designs are based on two themes: “European Culture” and “Rivers and Birds.”
Citizens across Europe, including Greece, can express their preferences through the online survey until September 21, 2026.
Ten designs based on two themes
The 10 proposals fall under two themes.
European Culture highlights Europe’s cultural heritage through iconic figures, including Greek opera singer Maria Callas, composer Ludwig van Beethoven and Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes.
Rivers and Birds focuses on symbols of freedom, unity and humanity’s connection with nature.
The proposals were selected through a Europe-wide design competition involving more than 1,200 graphic designers. Of those, 25 were invited to create design proposals based on one or both themes.
The ECB has said that one of the 10 proposals will eventually become the design for the next generation of euro banknotes.
How the final design will be chosen
Following the public consultation, the ECB’s Governing Council is expected to select a final design proposal toward the end of the year.
The decision will take into account several factors, including the conclusions of the design competition’s jury, a technical assessment and the results of two surveys.
One is the public online survey that runs through September 21. The other is a separate survey conducted in parallel by an independent polling company among a representative sample of eurozone citizens, using the same questions.
The ECB will publish a report combining the results of both surveys after the final proposal is selected.
ECB President Christine Lagarde said euro banknotes are more than a means of payment because they are “one of the most tangible expressions of Europe.”
She said the new designs, which combine aesthetics and meaning, would strengthen Europe’s shared identity.
Why the designs matter in Greece
The new proposals have particular relevance for Greece for two reasons.
Maria Callas is featured on the €5 banknote design proposal, while Design E was created by Greek designer Myrsini Vardopoulou.
Greek citizens who wish to take part in the ECB’s public consultation can submit their preferences online. The deadline is Monday, September 21.
