In a significant shift for British currency, the next series of Bank of England banknotes will feature native wildlife instead of historical figures. This change, prompted by public demand and the need for enhanced security against counterfeiting, will allow individuals to voice their preferences for which animals and birds should be included.
A Celebration of Nature
The decision to replace well-known historical characters with images of wildlife comes after an extensive public consultation that revealed a strong desire to celebrate the natural world. More than 44,000 responses were gathered, with 60% of participants selecting nature as their preferred theme. Other popular themes included architecture and landmarks (56%), historical figures (38%), and arts and culture (30%).
Victoria Cleland, the chief cashier of the Bank of England, underscored the dual purpose of the new banknote series. “The key driver for introducing a new banknote series is always to increase counterfeit resilience, but it also provides an opportunity to celebrate different aspects of the UK,” she stated. This move marks the end of more than half a century of featuring historical figures, which has often been a source of controversy, especially regarding representation.
Expert Panel to Curate Shortlist
An expert panel will be tasked with selecting a shortlist of wildlife candidates for the upcoming designs. This panel includes notable wildlife filmmakers and presenters such as Gordon Buchanan and Miranda Krestovnikoff, along with wildlife conservationists from Ulster Wildlife and academic experts. Nadeem Perera, one of the panellists, expressed the cultural significance of this change, stating, “The wildlife of the UK is not separate from our culture. It sits in our football crests, our folklore, our coastlines and our childhoods. Giving it space on something as symbolic as our currency feels both overdue and significant.”
While the monarch has been a constant presence on British banknotes since 1960, the inclusion of wildlife aims to connect the currency more closely with the everyday experiences of the British public.
Addressing Controversy and Representation
The Bank of England has faced scrutiny over its historical choices, particularly the lack of female figures and representatives from ethnic minorities on its notes. The last decade saw the introduction of notable personalities such as Sir Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing, but critics highlighted the absence of diversity. By shifting focus to wildlife, the Bank may sidestep some of the controversies that have surrounded the selection of human figures.
However, even this change is not without its potential pitfalls; the recent declaration of the robin as the UK’s favourite bird sparked some debate.
Public Input and Future Designs
This summer, the public will be invited to choose specific wildlife to be featured from the shortlist created by the expert panel. Notably, household pets will be excluded from consideration, focusing strictly on native species. The new banknotes may also incorporate elements of nature beyond animals, including plants and landscapes, to enhance the overall design.
The Bank of England is likely aiming to replicate the success of other countries’ innovative banknote designs, such as Bermuda’s award-winning $5 note, which showcases vibrant images of marine life and a profile of King Charles III.
Why it Matters
This initiative not only reflects a growing appreciation for Britain’s natural heritage but also highlights the importance of public engagement in the evolution of national symbols. As the Bank of England embraces this new direction, it opens the door to a more inclusive and representative portrayal of British identity, one that resonates with contemporary values and celebrates the nation’s unique wildlife.
