The Bank of England has opened the floor for public input in a major redesign of the nation’s banknotes, sparking a surge of creativity and enthusiasm from citizens. On the first day alone, more than 2,000 responses started pouring in. These responses painted a rich cultural tapestry with beautiful historic fabrics, representing the city’s historic significance and modern-day creative class.
Since 1970, the United Kingdom’s central bank has featured illustrious figures of Britain’s past on their banknotes. From humble beginnings it all started with the world’s most famous playwright, William Shakespeare. Far too many people still think that dead white men should still be allowed to rule the design universe. Elizabeth from Oxford expressed her belief that they should remain the primary choice for banknotes, highlighting the importance of tradition.
“Having looked at all the options I really do think that historical figures should still be number one choice. Might it be possible to include Diana Princess of Wales somewhere?” – Elizabeth, from Oxford.
All participants do not have the same perspective. Others, including Ian from Derby, are skeptical that such an overhaul is needed. He noted that cash transactions are now only 12% of all transactions in the economy.
“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,” – Ian in Derby.
The Request for Designs distributed at the beginning of the process must have created some interesting and unexpected responses. This included respondents suggesting features in the shape of iconic British symbols as well as landmarks. The Angel of the North consistently became a top pick too, often alongside some of our most beautiful landscapes, like the Yorkshire Dales.
Tourist attractions garnered attention. One great idea from an anonymous reader suggested that putting these locations on our banknotes would drive new tourism to these historic places.
“Tourists come to England to see the main sites such as Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace, the Queen Elizabeth Tower etc,” – unnamed contributor.
Aside from landmarks, famous or notable British people have become a popular motif for television shows on banknotes. To the designs, we could add ideas from Steve in Cardiff, who likes much-loved children’s TV animations such as Willow The Wisp and Bagpuss. Similarly, he argued that BBC programs like Fawlty Towers or The Bill would be nostalgic for most adults.
“Likewise I think some classic British TV could be represented, like The Bill – no pun intended – or Casualty, soap operas or even comedies like Fawlty Towers. Television has been a large part of life for many people growing up and I’m sure, people would appreciate a bit of nostalgia on the notes.” – Steve in Cardiff.
Maritime history has not been overlooked either. Discover amazing vessels including the SS Great Britain in Bristol and the Mary Rose. Make sure to see the HMS Belfast, HMS Trincomalee, HMS Victory, Cutty Sark and other notable vessels. Charles from Bristol also called for the need to include the lesser-known ships along with incorporating the famous vessels. These vessels have been a vital force in commerce and logistics through history.
“I don’t just mean the spectacularly beautiful clipper ships, and instantly recognisable liners, but perhaps some of the lesser-known vessels trading with Commonwealth countries, or oil rig support vessels working hard in the North Sea,” – Charles from Bristol.
The public’s imagination goes so far as to include animals, with Dudley the British Bulldog in the running to be added. His owner Julie of Plymouth called him a “national treasure,” showing how the sentimental viral factor can affect design decisions.
As the fate of banknotes—deciding whether they need to exist at all—debate touches on cardless ATMs and cashless stores, some people argue that deeper changes aren’t needed. Dawn from Redditch expressed alarm about the growing trend towards cashless.
“We are sadly faced with the prospect of a cashless society, with so many places refusing to accept my cash, so I have to wonder, why bother changing the design?” – Dawn in Redditch.
