UK Banknotes to Feature Wildlife Instead of Historical Figures

The Bank of England has announced that future banknote designs will feature images of British wildlife instead of the historical figures that traditionally appear on UK currency. The move is part of the central bank’s effort to modernize banknote imagery while incorporating stronger anti-counterfeiting features.

The decision follows a public consultation conducted in 2025 that gathered around 44,000 responses. According to the bank, nature was the most popular theme, with roughly 60% of respondents selecting it as one of their preferred options for the next generation of banknotes.

To support the design process, the Bank of England will work with an independent expert advisory panel composed of specialists with expertise in the UK’s natural environment and wildlife. The panel will help identify suitable species and imagery that best represent the country’s biodiversity.

Officials said wildlife imagery not only celebrates the UK’s natural heritage but could also enhance security features in banknote design. Advanced printing techniques and detailed natural imagery can make notes more difficult to counterfeit while creating a distinctive national identity for the next series of UK currency.