A brand-new look could be coming to your wallet, as several familiar creatures are being considered for future currency. The Bank of England has launched a public vote to help decide which native animals will feature on the next generation of cash.
A specialised group of conservation experts helped create a selection of species to potentially replace the historic figures currently used. This collection of animals is split into three distinct groups that reflect the diverse habitats found across the nation. People are being invited to select their top two choices from each section before the vote closes on July 3, 2026. Only the creatures currently on this list will be chosen for the final designs.
Famous faces to disappear from UK banknotes in major overhaul
Officials began planning this new currency update last summer to make our money much harder to counterfeit. In March 2026, it was announced that the natural world would be the main inspiration, following overwhelming public support, writes Vicky Shaw.
A massive amount of early feedback specifically requested that we focus on the wonderful variety of British wildlife. Every individual note will need to look completely different from the others so they remain simple for everyone to recognise.
Because of this, the final selection will represent four distinct environments rather than just the top four most popular choices. The main pictures will also be paired with extra artistic details inspired by the natural landscape.
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey will make the ultimate decision after reviewing all the public suggestions. British citizens living at home or abroad can submit their thoughts online or by post.
Avian additions: Six birds feature on the shortlist for the new banknotes
The final results of this national vote will be shared with the public before the end of 2026. However, it will take several years before these notes are ready for use due to the complex printing and security processes required. These careful preparations ensure the currency remains incredibly tough to replicate whilst staying durable for everyday use.
Victoria Cleland, Bank of England chief cashier, said: "I very much hope the public will enjoy engaging in our consultation to choose the animals to feature on our next series of banknotes."
The shortlisted animals demonstrate the rich variety of wildlife we have to celebrate in the UK. Even with these new designs, you will still see a familiar face when paying for items as the King's portrait will remain on the front.
Ensuring that all four home nations are equally represented will also stay a vital part of the creation process. Famous historical figures who helped shape our society have been celebrated on our currency since 1970.
The current polymer notes we use today were first introduced a decade ago in 2016 with Sir Winston Churchill. Since then, other notable faces have included Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing.
Even though digital payments and phone wallets are more popular than ever, physical money is still incredibly important. Around one in seven people still rely on paper currency as their main way to pay for things.
The wildlife shortlist
Mammals
- Bottlenose dolphin
- Brown hare
- European hedgehog
- Grey seal
- Pine marten
- Red fox
Birds
- Atlantic puffin
- Barn owl
- Common kingfisher
- Eurasian curlew
- Great spotted woodpecker
- White-tailed eagle
Amphibians, insects and fish
- Atlantic salmon
- Basking shark
- Buff-tailed bumblebee
- Common frog
- Emperor dragonfly
- Marsh fritillary butterfly
Found your favourites? You can cast your vote on the Bank of England's website here.
