The Bank of England has announced it will no longer print portraits of notable British figures on its banknotes, opting instead for photographs of wild animals to promote a more “non-divisive” approach.
The iconic image of Sir Winston Churchill will not appear on banknotes anymore, marking the end of a 50-year tradition where famous Britons were featured opposite the reigning monarch. According to the Bank of England, research indicated that images of native wildlife resonate better with the public, making them less “divisive” than historical figures.
Going forward, any new designs must meet criteria ensuring they represent Britain, appeal to the public, and avoid potentially offensive imagery that could alienate any group.
Churchill, once celebrated as ‘the greatest Briton’, seems to have fallen out of favor as recent events, including vandalism of his statue in Parliament Square, suggest a shift in cultural sentiment.
Originally, British banknotes only showcased portraits of seated monarchs. However, since 1970, they began featuring notable figures on the back, a practice that has evolved over time. For instance, the Duke of Wellington and William Shakespeare were among the first to be honored for over 20 years each, whereas World War II codebreaker Alan Turing will soon be replaced by an animal after just six years.
Historically, Britain’s contributions from engineers and scientists have played a significant role, with figures like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin shaping the nation’s identity.
Traditionally, banknotes and coins have reflected a society’s self-image and the prominent individuals of the time. However, as seen in the European Union’s shift to a single currency, the connection between money and its cultural context is increasingly fading.
This transition to featuring British animals marks yet another significant alteration in recent years. Previously, former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney replaced cotton notes with plastic ones. While this change aimed to make the banknotes more durable and secure, it also raised concerns about usability, as many have found the polymer notes either too slippery or too sticky, complicating everyday tasks like counting and storing them.
