Bank of England shortlists animals to replace historical figures on future banknotes

The Bank of England has shortlisted 18 animals and other wildlife species, including a puffin and a bumblebee, for possible inclusion on the next series of UK banknotes, as it asks the public to help choose which designs should replace the current set. The move marks a major shift away from banknotes dominated by historical figures and has drawn attention because it could see Winston Churchill and other familiar portraits replaced by native species.

According to the BBC, the central bank is inviting people to vote on which animals should feature on future notes. Bloomberg reported that the public has about a month to decide among the finalists, and that the shortlist includes four wild animals that would ultimately be chosen for the new currency designs.