New Themes Sought for Bank of England Notes

The Bank of England has announced a public consultation into the redesign of its banknotes – the first in more than 50 years.

While the current series was issued on polymer from 2016 onwards, the basic designs remained the same as their paper predecessors – with the image of the monarch of the front, and notable historical figures on the reverse. These have featured on the notes since 1970, changing over the years. The monarch’s portrait (itself recently changed from Queen Elizabeth II to King Charles III) will remain, but the historical figures on the back are likely to be replaced in their entirety.

The six themes identified by the Bank are:

• notable historical figures
• nature
• architecture and landmarks
• arts, culture and sport
• noteworthy milestones
• innovation.

The public are being invited to submit their preferences, or indeed suggest new themes. The deadline is 31 July, and whatever is chosen must symbolise the UK, resonate with the public, support banknote authentication, be non-divisive, enduring, and consistent with the Bank’s legal obligations.