The Bank of England has unveiled a selection of new banknote designs submitted by the public. Seeking input for the most significant redesign in half a century, the central bank has received numerous suggestions, including a dolphin, the Sycamore Gap tree, and the Angel of the North sculpture in Gateshead. Thousands of responses have flooded in, as reported by the BBC, showcasing widespread engagement, including significant interest from young individuals, according to Victoria Cleland, the chief cashier at the Bank of England.
Emphasizing the importance of banknotes in celebrating the UK, Cleland noted the enthusiastic response and highlighted the upcoming decision-making process led by Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey. The bank had previously outlined six potential themes for the new banknotes, ranging from historical figures and architecture to nature and innovation. Additional themes suggested by the public will also be considered, with potential further public feedback on the specific imagery for the chosen theme.
The forthcoming banknote series will retain a portrait of King Charles but will exclude representations of any living person. With over £86 billion worth of Bank of England notes in circulation, featuring iconic figures like Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing, the bank introduced polymer banknotes in 2016 for enhanced security measures.
Looking ahead, the public consultation on the next series of notes, closing on July 31, aims to capture diverse themes representing the collective national identity and values of the UK. Ms. Cleland’s call for public input underscores the symbolic importance of banknotes as a reflection of national identity.