A new series of banknotes are set to be released and will celebrate the natural world.
The Bank of England has announced that a barn owl, Atlantic puffin, buff-tailed bumblebee, and European hedgehog will feature on the next generation of notes, following a public consultation that drew nearly 500,000 responses—the highest ever for such a process.
Victoria Cleland, chief cashier at the Bank of England, said: "I am delighted that nearly half a million people responded to our wildlife imagery consultation, showing that cash still matters.
"I would like to thank everyone who engaged, including those who I met at our events.
"With their support, we have chosen four distinct and inspiring animals that not only showcase the great variety of wildlife we have in the UK, but will also enhance the security of our banknotes."
18 animals had been shortlisted
Respondents were asked to choose from a shortlist of 18 animals across three categories—mammals, birds, and amphibians, insects and fish—developed with input from wildlife experts.
The barn owl, buff-tailed bumblebee, and European hedgehog were the most popular choices in their categories.
The Atlantic puffin, while not receiving the most votes overall, was selected as the most popular marine animal to add variety and to celebrate the UK’s coastline.
A spokesperson for the Bank of England said: "The inclusion of a marine animal will add variety to the series, making the denominations easier to distinguish and giving an opportunity to celebrate the British coastline."
Not all animals with the highest number of votes were selected to appear on the notes.
The Bank emphasised the importance of representing different UK environments.
For example, the red fox and common kingfisher received more nominations than the puffin but were not chosen.
The final decision on which animal will appear on each denomination has not yet been made and will be announced closer to the launch.
Though still in early development, the new designs will be revealed nearer to their release.
The Bank said the process of designing, testing, and printing new banknotes takes years to ensure they are high-quality, resilient, and accessible.
Each animal will serve as the central image on one of the denominations, with other nature-inspired elements included.
The Bank has not ruled out incorporating additional shortlisted animals into the broader design.
Rhys Phillips, the Bank’s incoming chief cashier who will oversee the new series, said: "It’s fantastic to see how engaged the public have been in this choice.
"With these animals as the focus for the design, we can deliver a new series of banknotes that are secure and represent the UK at its best.
"We’ll now work to design, test, and produce the banknotes, combining the imagery we’ve announced today with cutting-edge security features and materials science."
The current series of Bank of England notes, in circulation since 2016, features historical figures including Sir Winston Churchill on the £5 note, Jane Austen on the £10, JMW Turner on the £20, and Alan Turing on the £50.
These figures have been a staple of UK banknotes since 1970, celebrating individuals who have shaped thought, innovation, leadership, and values.
The Bank launched the consultation on June 3, inviting the public to help shape the new series.
A total of 478,531 people took part, casting more than 2.5 million selections across the shortlist.
The next series of notes will continue to feature a portrait of the monarch.
The first denomination from the new series will be launched over the next few years.
What do you think of the new banknotes set to be released? Let us know in the comments.
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