The Bank of England has unveiled a shortlist of 18 native British animals that could replace historic figures on future banknotes, including a puffin, a bumblebee and a frog — sparking debate among traditionalists. The public is being invited to vote on which creatures should appear on the next series of £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes, marking the biggest redesign since the 1960s.
The shortlist features a range of UK wildlife: the Atlantic puffin, bumblebee, butterfly, common frog, common seal, dolphin, Eurasian beaver, hedgehog, hen harrier, kingfisher, little owl, otter, peregrine falcon, pine marten, red squirrel, swallow, swift and woodpecker. The Bank of England said the selection was chosen to reflect species native to the UK and to celebrate the nation's natural heritage.
“The Bank of England has shortlisted 18 native animals – including a puffin, bumblebee and frog – to appear on future banknotes, replacing historical figures. The public can vote on the designs, which are part of the biggest note overhaul since the 1960s.”
The move represents a significant departure from the current series, which features historical figures such as Sir Winston Churchill (on the £5 note), Jane Austen (on the £10), J.M.W. Turner (on the £20) and Alan Turing (on the £50). The inclusion of the common frog, in particular, has drawn criticism from some quarters, with the Sun newspaper reporting a backlash from those who view the change as a 'woke' replacement of the wartime prime minister.
However, the Bank of England has stressed that the public consultation is the first step in a long process. Governor Andrew Bailey said: "We want to hear from people across the UK — from all walks of life — which animal they would most like to see on the new notes." The consultation will run for a specified period, after which the Bank will announce the winning animal or animals. New designs will then be developed, with the first notes expected to enter circulation in the coming years.
This initiative affects all parts of the United Kingdom, as the Bank of England's notes are legal tender in England and Wales and widely accepted in Scotland and Northern Ireland (where local banks also issue their own notes). The shortlist includes species found across the UK, such as the red squirrel (stronghold in Scotland), the hedgehog (widespread) and the puffin (coastal colonies in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland).
Experts have welcomed the move as a way to raise awareness of British wildlife. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), while not directly quoted in sources, is often associated with bird conservation. The Bank of England has emphasised that the consultation is not just about aesthetics but about reflecting the nation's values. "Banknotes are a symbol of our national identity," a spokesman said. "By featuring native animals, we aim to celebrate the rich biodiversity of the UK."
The shortlist was compiled in consultation with wildlife experts and organisations, though specific names are not provided in the sources. The public can cast their vote online or via paper forms available at Bank of England premises. The final decision will be taken by the Bank's governor and senior officials after the consultation closes.
Looking ahead, the Bank of England will announce the winning animal(s) after the public vote. Design work will then begin, incorporating security features and artwork. The first new notes are not expected to be issued for several years, as the process typically involves multiple stages of design, testing and production. Existing notes featuring historical figures will remain legal tender until they are gradually withdrawn.
What This Means For You - Collectors and enthusiasts: The new notes will become sought-after collectibles, especially early series or limited editions. - General public: You can participate in the Bank of England's consultation and have a say in what appears on the nation's currency. This is a rare opportunity to influence design. - Everyone using cash: The new notes will eventually replace the current polymer series, but existing notes remain valid. You do not need to swap them urgently. - Wildlife lovers: The initiative highlights UK biodiversity and may lead to increased public interest in conservation. - Traditionalists: If you are attached to historical figures like Churchill, note that the change is gradual and several years away. The old notes will still be accepted.