In a significant shift from tradition, the Bank of England has announced plans to feature British wildlife on its next series of banknotes, allowing the public to weigh in on which animals and birds will be showcased. This move marks the end of an era dominated by historical figures and aims to celebrate the nation’s rich natural heritage while enhancing security against counterfeiting.
A New Era for Currency Design
The Bank’s decision to incorporate wildlife into its banknote designs is driven by both a desire to increase counterfeit resistance and a commitment to celebrate the diverse aspects of life in the UK. Victoria Cleland, the Bank’s chief cashier, emphasised, “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.”
The current banknotes feature notable figures such as Sir Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing, all of whom have sparked debate over representation. This fresh focus on wildlife signals a notable shift, especially as nature emerged as the most popular theme in a recent public consultation, with around 60% of respondents favouring it over other options like architecture or historical figures.
Public Participation in Selection Process
To curate a shortlist of wildlife that may appear on the new banknotes, the Bank has assembled a panel of experts, including wildlife filmmakers and presenters such as Gordon Buchanan and Miranda Krestovnikoff, alongside conservationists and academics. Nadeem Perera, a member of the panel, remarked, “The wildlife of the UK is not separate from our culture. It sits in our football crests, our folklore, our coastlines and our childhoods.”
This panel will prepare a selection of animals for public voting, with the final choice resting with the Bank’s governor. While household pets will not be included, the possibility of incorporating elements from nature, such as plants and landscapes, adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming designs.
Addressing Representation and Controversy
The historical representation on banknotes has not been without controversy. The absence of female figures, aside from Queen Elizabeth II, and the lack of diversity among the historical characters have prompted criticism. The introduction of wildlife may alleviate some of this scrutiny, as it shifts focus away from controversial human figures to the broader theme of nature.
However, past decisions, such as naming the robin as the nation’s favourite bird, have faced their own backlash. The Bank’s move towards wildlife does not guarantee unanimous approval, but it does reflect a broader desire for inclusivity and representation in British culture.
Looking Ahead to New Designs
As the public prepares to engage in this selection process, the Bank hopes to replicate the success of international examples, such as Bermuda’s award-winning $5 note, which features vibrant imagery of local wildlife and landscapes. The blend of colour and nature in banknote design is proving to be a popular consideration, with many suggesting animals and natural scenes as potential themes.
This summer, the Bank will open the voting process to the public, inviting all to participate in choosing which specific UK wildlife will grace future notes.
Why it Matters
The decision to feature wildlife on banknotes is more than a design change; it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of nature in the collective British identity. By allowing public input, the Bank of England not only modernises its currency but also fosters a sense of community and connection to the natural world. In an era where environmental issues are increasingly at the forefront of public consciousness, this initiative serves as a timely reminder of the beauty and diversity that the UK has to offer.
