Bank of England Replaces Historical Figures With Wildlife Imagery

The Bank of England announced it will launch a new series of banknotes featuring native British wildlife, replacing the historical figures that have appeared on the currency since 2016. Following a public consultation with 478,531 responses, the bank selected the barn owl, Atlantic puffin, buff-tailed bumblebee, and European hedgehog for the designs. The new notes will remove portraits of Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing, though the portrait of the monarch will remain.

Chief Cashier Victoria Cleland stated the animals showcase the variety of UK wildlife and will enhance banknote security. While the barn owl, bumblebee, and hedgehog were the most popular in their categories, the Atlantic puffin was selected as a marine representative to celebrate the coastline and improve denomination distinction. Incoming Chief Cashier Rhys Phillips will oversee the design and production process, with the first denominations expected to launch within a few years.

The decision has triggered significant political controversy. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch argued the move is erasing British history, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described the change as "absolutely crackers." Additionally, the Great British PAC launched a "Save Our Heroes" campaign, alleging the consultation was misleading because it asked the public to choose animals rather than whether they supported the removal of historical figures. The group has submitted a formal request to Governor Andrew Bailey to reconsider the decision.