The Bank of England launches a public consultation to select native wildlife for its next banknote series, set to enhance counterfeit resilience.
The Bank of England has opened a public consultation to choose wildlife native to the UK for its next series of £5, £10, £20, and £50 banknotes. The shortlist, curated with input from wildlife experts, includes animals grouped into three categories, with each note featuring a distinct species for easy recognition. The consultation runs until 3 July, limiting selections to the provided shortlist only.
The decision follows a 2025 announcement to redesign banknotes for improved counterfeit resilience and a 2026 theme selection of nature, driven by public feedback. Wildlife was highlighted for its cultural and ecological significance, inspiring art, literature, and everyday landscapes. The new series aims to reflect these values while maintaining security standards.
No immediate market reaction was reported, as the announcement focuses on design rather than monetary policy or financial instruments.