In a significant shift, the Bank of England is preparing to replace historical figures on its banknotes with images of British wildlife. This decision not only aims to enhance the security features of the currency but also reflects a growing public desire to celebrate the nation’s natural beauty. As part of the process, the public will have the opportunity to vote on which animals and birds they would like to see represented on the new notes, marking a broader engagement with the community.
A Fresh Direction for Currency
The move to feature wildlife comes in response to over 44,000 public consultations, where nature emerged as the most favoured theme, chosen by 60% of respondents. This marks a departure from more than 50 years of showcasing historical figures, a practice that has faced its share of criticism. The Bank’s chief cashier, Victoria Cleland, stated, “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 notes feature notable figures such as Sir Winston Churchill and Jane Austen, but the Bank has faced scrutiny over its lack of diversity. Since 1960, the only woman depicted on the notes was Queen Elizabeth II, and no historical figures from ethnic minority backgrounds have ever been featured. The transition to wildlife imagery is seen as a way to avoid potential backlash while also engaging a wider audience.
Expert Panel to Curate Shortlist
To curate the wildlife shortlist, a panel of experts has been assembled, including wildlife filmmakers like Gordon Buchanan and Miranda Krestovnikoff, alongside Ulster Wildlife’s Katy Bell and academics Steve Ormerod and Dawn Scott. Perera, one of the panel members, emphasised the cultural significance of UK wildlife, 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.”
The panel will consider a variety of animals native to Britain, with the public being invited to vote later this summer. Notably, household pets will not be included in the selection process. The Bank of England may also incorporate other elements of nature, such as plants and landscapes, to enhance the overall design of the new notes.
Looking to Global Examples
The Bank is inspired by successful international designs, such as Bermuda’s celebrated $5 note, which features striking images of marine life and has garnered accolades from the International Bank Note Society. This indicates that the Bank of England is keen to elevate the aesthetic appeal of its currency while retaining functionality and security.
As the UK moves towards a future where its banknotes reflect the nation’s rich biodiversity, the emphasis is placed not only on visual appeal but also on fostering a deeper connection between the public and their environment.
Why it Matters
This initiative to replace historical figures with wildlife on banknotes is more than a simple redesign; it serves as a powerful reminder of the UK’s natural heritage and the importance of biodiversity. By involving the public in the selection process, the Bank of England is not just changing the face of its currency—it’s creating a platform for community engagement and appreciation for the natural world. This shift underscores a broader societal recognition of the value of nature, urging individuals to reflect on their connection to the environment and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
