Bank of England to redesign banknotes - and wants your help

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"Bank of England Seeks Public Input for Upcoming Banknote Redesign"

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The Bank of England is set to undertake its first significant redesign of banknotes in over half a century, marking a pivotal shift in the imagery used on the currency. Historically, notable figures like Sir Winston Churchill have adorned the £5 note since 1970, but this may change as the Bank seeks public input on new themes for future designs. Potential themes include nature, innovation, and significant historical events, which could lead to the inclusion of British wildlife, architectural landmarks, or even traditional British dishes like bangers and mash. The Bank has invited the public to share their thoughts and suggestions for these new themes, highlighting that banknotes serve not only as currency but also as a representation of national identity. The chief cashier, Victoria Cleland, emphasized the desire for themes that resonate with the public while also being enduring and non-divisive. She expressed enthusiasm for the public's creative contributions, acknowledging that some suggestions might be humorous or unconventional.

While the redesign opens the door for a broader range of themes, the Bank of England remains committed to featuring the monarch on its notes, a tradition that has been in place since 1960. The current series of notes includes images of historical figures such as Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing, but the Bank aims to create a more diverse representation. Cleland pointed out that other countries, such as those issuing Euro banknotes or Scottish and Northern Irish notes, have successfully incorporated a variety of imagery, including architectural styles and local wildlife. As cash transactions continue to decline in favor of digital payments, the Bank of England is determined to maintain the relevance of physical currency for those who still prefer to use it. The public can submit their suggestions for new banknote themes through an online form or by mail until the end of July, with the final design decisions resting with the Bank's governor. With over 4.7 billion notes currently in circulation, worth approximately £86 billion, this redesign represents a significant opportunity to modernize the face of British currency while honoring its historical significance.

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Banknotes issued by the Bank of England are about to get their first major redesign in more than 50 years. Notable historical figures, such as Sir Winston Churchill on the current fiver, have featured on these banknotes since 1970 but could be on the way out. The public are being asked for their views on new themes, such as nature, innovation, or key events in history. It raises the possibility of British birds, bridges, or bangers and mash featuring on the next series of £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes. The monarch has appeared on Bank of England notes since 1960. Images of historical characters, starting with William Shakespeare, were first seen on the reverse side a decade later. At times the choices have landed the Bank in hot water. Theabsence of any women, apart from Queen Elizabeth II, on notes in 2013 prompted a huge backlash. Now, the Bank is proposing that designs on the next series of notes could move on to a new theme. While notable historical figures remain an option, other possible subject matters suggested by the Bank include: The public are being invited to give their views. They can also suggest their own themes, which may prompt plenty of jokes -Notey McNoteface will undoubtedly feature- and debate. "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," said Victoria Cleland, the Bank's chief cashier, whose signature appears on notes. "I am really keen to hear what themes the public would like to see represented." Ms Cleland said banknotes were "little pieces of art in our pocket", but there were some extra considerations over what can go on them, such as accessibility and security features. She told the BBC she was "open minded" over what theme should be introduced, but said continuing with historical figures was not being ruled out. However, she was keen to widen the choice, albeit it needed to be enduring, and not divisive, she said. Banknotes issued in Scotland and Northern Ireland already carry images of landmarks and animals such as otters. Euro banknotes feature architectural styles. Some notes around the world are incredibly colourful. Bermuda Monetary Authority's $5 note won last year's International Bank Note Society's banknote of the year award. It is predominantly pink and carries images of a blue marlin, dolphins and tuna fish as well as a profile of King Charles III. The back of the vertically designed note combines butterflies, flora, Horseshoe Bay, and a boat passing beneath Somerset Bridge. The Bank of England's notes have been less dramatic, featuring abstract geometric designs, lions or Britannia in years gone by. The crop of historical characters on the current series of circulating notes, in ascending order of note value, are Churchill, Jane Austen, JMW Turner and Alan Turing. This public consultation relates to the Bank's next series, which will also continue to include an image of the monarch. People can submit their view via an online form on the Bank's website, or by post, by the end of July. The final decision on what exactly features on a banknote lies with the Bank's governor. More than 4.7 billion Bank of England notes are in circulation, collectively worth around £86bn. Cash use has fallen to 12% of transactions as payments technology evolves, but the Bank has said it is committed to providing cash for those who wish to use it.

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Source: Bbc News