The Bank of England has launched a public consultation on future banknote designs.

Bank is asking the public to give their views on what theme they would like to see represented in the design of the next series of banknotes.

The consultation closes at 11.59pm on 31 July 2025. The Bank seeks responses in particular from UK residents and British citizens living abroad. They can be submitted via an online form on the Bank’s website or by post. 

UK banknotes have showcased notable historical figures since 1970, when William Shakespeare became the first person other than the monarch to feature on a Bank of England banknote. 

The consultation gives people the opportunity to express their views on which of following six potential themes they would like see on the next series of our banknotes:

- notable historical figures
- architecture and landmarks
- arts, culture and sport
- noteworthy events in history
- innovation
- nature

The next series of banknotes will feature a portrait of the monarch, regardless of the selected themes.The public can also suggest other themes for the Bank to consider.

Victoria Cleland, the Bank of England’s Chief Cashier, said: "Banknotes are more than just an important means of payment – they serve as a symbolic representation of our collective national identity and an opportunity to celebrate the UK. I am really keen to hear what themes the public would like to see represented on the next series of notes."

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