Britain is preparing for a major change to its currency, as historical figures such as Sir Winston Churchill and William Shakespeare are set to disappear from the next series of Bank of England banknotes, replaced instead by images of British wildlife.
The Bank of England confirmed that the upcoming series of notes will feature animals, plants and landscapes native to the United Kingdom. While the portrait of King Charles III will remain on the front of the notes, the reverse side will no longer honour famous individuals from Britain’s history.
For many across the country, the decision marks a poignant moment. For more than half a century, Britain’s currency has celebrated the thinkers, writers and leaders who helped shape the nation. Figures such as Churchill, Jane Austen, Alan Turing and JMW Turner have all appeared on the notes, representing the country’s cultural and historical legacy.
The tradition dates back to 1970, when Shakespeare became the first historical figure to appear on a Bank of England banknote alongside the monarch. Monarchs themselves have appeared on notes since Queen Elizabeth II was first featured in 1960.
Under the new plan, wildlife will replace these figures in an effort to showcase what the Bank describes as “the UK’s rich and varied wildlife.” Native species and natural landscapes will be considered, though household pets will not be included.
The decision follows a public consultation held in 2025, which received around 44,000 responses. The nature and wildlife theme proved the most popular option, supported by around 60 percent of participants. Architecture and landmarks came second with 56 percent, while notable historical figures finished third with 38 percent.
Another consultation will take place later this year, allowing members of the public to help decide which specific species and natural features will appear on the notes. A panel of wildlife experts will help compile the shortlist before the final decision is made.
Bank officials say the change is not only symbolic but practical. Wildlife imagery is expected to help improve security features and make counterfeiting more difficult, while also allowing new anti-counterfeiting technologies to be incorporated into the designs.
Victoria Cleland, chief cashier at the Bank of England, said the redesign provides an opportunity to celebrate different aspects of the country.
“The key driver for introducing a new banknote series is always to increase counterfeit resilience,” she said, adding that nature would allow the Bank to highlight Britain’s wildlife while improving security.
Still, for many people the change will feel like the closing of a chapter. Banknotes have long served not only as currency but as quiet reminders of the figures who shaped Britain’s story, from wartime leadership to literary brilliance.
The new notes are expected to take several years to design, test and introduce into circulation, meaning the familiar faces of Britain’s past will remain in wallets and purses for some time yet.
