The Bank of England is planning a major redesign of its currency that could replace portraits of historical figures with images of wildlife and nature on future banknotes.
The proposal follows a public consultation conducted by the central bank, where nature emerged as the most popular theme for new banknote imagery. About 60% of respondents supported wildlife and natural landscapes, ahead of architecture, historical figures, and other cultural themes.
If implemented, the redesign would represent one of the most significant visual changes to British currency in decades, while retaining the portrait of King Charles III on the front of the notes.
The reverse side, however, could soon feature animals, ecosystems, and plants that reflect the United Kingdom’s natural heritage.
Why the Bank of England Wants Wildlife on Banknotes
The redesign is partly about public engagement and partly about currency modernization.
According to the Bank of England, new banknote series are typically introduced to improve counterfeit resistance, but they also offer an opportunity to reflect national identity.
What the public consultation found
The consultation revealed strong support for nature-themed currency designs:
- 60% preferred nature and wildlife
- 56% supported architecture
- 38% favored historical figures
- Other suggestions included innovation, arts, and culture
The results suggest that many people see wildlife as a stronger symbol of modern British identity than traditional portraits.
Victoria Cleland said the process offers a chance to celebrate different aspects of the country.
“The key driver for introducing a new banknote series is always to increase counterfeit resilience, but it also provides an opportunity to celebrate different aspects of the UK.”
Who Is Choosing the Wildlife That May Appear on Banknotes?
An expert panel has been assembled to select wildlife candidates for the new currency.
Members of the wildlife advisory panel
The panel includes:
- Gordon Buchanan, wildlife filmmaker and television presenter
- Miranda Krestovnikoff, broadcaster and marine conservation advocate
- Nadeem Perera, conservation communicator
- Katy Bell from Ulster Wildlife
- Steve Ormerod, academic and environmental researcher
- Dawn Scott, a professor specialising in wildlife conservation
The group will develop a shortlist of species and natural themes to appear on future banknotes.
Perera emphasised that wildlife plays a deep cultural role in Britain.
“The wildlife of the UK is not separate from our culture. It sits in our football crests, our folklore, our coastlines, and our childhoods.”
What Animals Could Appear on Future UK Banknotes?
While the shortlist has not yet been released, experts say likely candidates could include species closely associated with the United Kingdom.
Possible examples might include:
- Red Fox
- European Hedgehog
- Red Deer
- Atlantic Puffin
- Eurasian Otter
Designs could also feature native plants, landscapes, and coastal ecosystems.
What Happens to the Historical Figures on Current Banknotes?
Even if wildlife replaces historical portraits on the reverse side, the monarch will continue to appear on the front of Bank of England notes—a tradition dating back to 1960.
Current figures on circulating banknotes
The reverse side of the current banknote series features prominent historical figures:
- £5 note — Winston Churchill
- £10 note — Jane Austen
- £20 note — J. M. W. Turner
- £50 note — Alan Turing
The practice of featuring notable individuals began in 1970, starting with William Shakespeare.
While these figures are widely celebrated, the Bank of England says new themes can help reflect modern cultural values.
Why Countries Are Moving Toward Nature-Themed Currency
The United Kingdom would not be alone in featuring wildlife prominently on banknotes.
Several countries have adopted nature-based designs in recent years.
Examples of nature-themed currency
One prominent example is Bermuda, whose vibrant banknotes feature marine life, birds, and local ecosystems. These notes have received international awards for their design and security features.
Other countries that highlight wildlife on currency include:
- Canada
- New Zealand
- Australia
These designs often serve both aesthetic and educational purposes, showcasing biodiversity while promoting national identity.
When the New Banknotes Could Arrive
The Bank of England says the redesigned notes are still several years away from circulation.
What happens next
The process will unfold in several stages:
- Expert panel creates a shortlist of wildlife candidates
- Public voting will help select the final imagery
- Designers will develop detailed banknote concepts
- Security features and printing technology will be finalized
The public vote is expected to take place later this summer, giving citizens a direct role in shaping the future appearance of their currency.
TL;DR
- The Bank of England is considering replacing historical figures with wildlife imagery on banknotes.
- A public consultation found 60% support for nature-themed designs, making it the most popular option.
- An expert panel, including wildlife broadcasters and conservation scientists, will shortlist species for the notes.
- Current notes feature figures like Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing.
- The public will vote on wildlife images, and the new banknotes could be introduced in the coming years.