The Atlantic puffin, bran owl, buff-tailed bumblebee, and European hedgehog will represent UK wildlife and feature as the central images on the new series of banknotes to be issued by the Bank of England.In a public vote the barn owl (Tyto alba), buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) and European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) were the most popular animals in their respective categories. The Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) was selected because it was the most popular marine animal. The BoE felt the inclusion of a marine animal will add variety to the series, making the denominations easier to distinguish and will provide an opportunity to celebrate the British coastline.
The decision on which animal will feature on which denomination will be made at a later date and announced closer to launch. While the selected animals will feature as the central imagery for the next series, the banknotes will also feature other elements from nature to complete the designs, potentially including other shortlisted animals. The next series will continue to include a portrait of the monarch.
It takes a number of years to design, test and print banknotes, to make sure they are high-quality, resilient and accessible. The expectation is, therefore, that the first denomination from the next series will be launched over the next few years.
So, a quick quiz for you – do you know who features on the current banknotes?
Well, it’s Sir Winston Churchill (£5), Jane Austin (£10), JMW Turner (£20), and Alan Turing (£50).
