The Bank of England has initiated a significant redesign of its banknotes, inviting public input to influence the future of currency in the UK. This new move has spurred an incredibly exciting response – over 2,000 suggestions came pouring in on the very first day. Digital artist Ashanti Fortson collaboration with Stephen Pickett The initiative dives into diverse issues and historical voices. It demonstrates the depth of federal candidates’ interests and cultural importance.
Since 1970 the Bank of England has used historical figures on its banknotes, starting with William Shakespeare. That’s why so many of the finalists to our recent call for ideas insist that these figures should continue to be an important focus. Elizabeth from Oxford urged the need to make heroes into heroes. She wrote, “Having thought through all of those situations, I really do think that dead white men should be first. Could it be too much to have Diana Princess of Wales added somewhere?
As support for controversial historical figures continues to mount, many other far more creative ideas have taken flight. Maritime themes really drew people in. Other memorable hot tips were the SS Great Britain in Bristol, the Mary Rose, HMS Belfast, HMS Trincomalee, HMS Victory and the Cutty Sark. Charles from Bristol highlighted the significance of these vessels, saying, “I don’t just mean the spectacularly beautiful clipper ships… but perhaps some of the lesser-known vessels trading with Commonwealth countries.”
Moreover, vintage UK television programmes have entered public submissions. Television shows like The Bill, Casualty, and Fawlty Towers received critical acclaim but mostly for their form of nostalgia. Steve from Cardiff noted that television has played a significant role in many people’s lives, suggesting that “some classic British TV could be represented… Television has been a large part of life for many people growing up.”
Among the more fanciful proposals is Dudley the British Bulldog, whom his owner, Julie, calls a “national treasure.” The Angel of the North continues to be a perennial favourite too, for its national cultural landmark status as an icon of Britain. Locations of outstanding natural beauty like the Yorkshire Dales have been suggested in nominations as worthy representations to feature on banknotes.
The conversation surrounding banknotes is not limited to traditional designs. Some citizens are questioning the necessity of a major overhaul. Today, only 12% of transactions are cash. Consequently, the majority thinks it isn’t a pressing issue to change banknotes’ designs. Dawn from Redditch expressed skepticism, asking, “We are sadly faced with the prospect of a cashless society… so I have to wonder, why bother changing the design?”
Some have argued that putting tourist attractions on banknotes would increase tourism. One of our direct participants pointed out that people travel to England specifically to view sites with iconic reputations, such as Stonehenge and Buckingham Palace. They contended that prominently displaying these scenes across banknotes would lead to an influx of tourists. As such, they can be more prone to photographing with them or taking them home as souvenirs.
Ian from Derby added to this perspective by stating, “With the 200 years of the railway in Britain being celebrated, it seems a shame not to celebrate that considering we gave railways to the world.” We applaud his suggestion to balance the celebration of our community’s historic milestones with a contemporary focus on innovation and social equity.
While some respondents advocate for innovation, such as Ian from Leighton Buzzard’s suggestion that banknotes resemble mobile phones, others remain firmly grounded in tradition. This combination of trends presents a thrilling test for the Bank of England. It needs to now figure out how best to emote our nation’s new identity going forward.