Britain's Banknotes: From Heroes to Hedgehogs?

Jan de Vries · 2026-06-05

### A Surprising Shortlist for Britain's Currency You've probably seen the faces on British banknotes before. Winston Churchill. Jane Austen. J.M.W. Turner. Alan Turing. They're icons of history, science, and art. But now, the Bank of England is considering a big change. They might swap these human heroes for some furry, feathered, and finned friends. Hedgehogs, puffins, and dolphins are among the wildlife shortlisted for Britain's next generation of banknotes. It's a move that's turning heads. And honestly, it makes you wonder: what's behind this shift? Let's break it down. ### Why Wildlife on Currency? The idea isn't random. The Bank of England wants to celebrate the natural world. Britain has a rich ecosystem, from the cliffs of Scotland to the meadows of England. By putting animals on banknotes, they're highlighting conservation and biodiversity. It's a way to remind people of what's worth protecting. This isn't the first country to do this, either. Australia has kangaroos on their coins. Canada features loons and polar bears. So, Britain is joining a global trend. But for a nation known for its royal and historical portraits, it's a bold step.  ### The Contenders: Hedgehogs, Puffins, and Dolphins The shortlisted animals each have a story. Hedgehogs are beloved in British gardens. They're small, spiky, and a symbol of rural life. Puffins, with their colorful beaks, represent the rugged coastlines. And dolphins? They're intelligent, playful, and a sign of healthy seas. Other animals might be in the mix too. Think red squirrels, badgers, or even the mighty oak tree. The final selection will depend on public input and design feasibility. But one thing's clear: these creatures are more than just cute faces. They carry meaning. ### What This Means for Collectors and Travelers If you're a currency collector or someone who travels to the UK, this is big news. New banknotes mean new designs, and they could become valuable over time. Plus, it changes how people see money. Instead of just a transaction tool, it becomes a piece of art and education. For US readers, think of it like the $20 bill. If we swapped Andrew Jackson for a bald eagle, it'd spark conversation. That's exactly what's happening across the pond. ### The Timeline and Next Steps The Bank of England hasn't set a firm date yet. But expect discussions over the next year. They'll hold consultations, gather feedback, and work with designers. It's a slow process, but that's by design. They want to get it right. In the meantime, keep an eye on their announcements. If you're passionate about wildlife or British culture, this is a chance to have your voice heard. Who knows? Your favorite animal might end up in your wallet. ### Final Thoughts This shift from human icons to animals is refreshing. It shows that currency can be more than just money. It can tell a story about a nation's values. And in a world facing climate change and habitat loss, celebrating nature on banknotes feels timely. So, could hedgehogs replace Churchill? Maybe not entirely. But they'll share the stage. And that's a beautiful thing.