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Puffin, Bumblebee Among 18 Creatures Shortlisted for Banknotes

Published Tuesday, June 2, 2026 · Updated June 3

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Media Analysis

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The Bank of England has announced a shortlist of 18 creatures, including puffins and bumblebees, for new banknote designs, marking the first time since 1970 that historical figures will not be featured on the reverse side. The public is invited to participate in a consultation until July 3 to select their preferred designs.

Framing differences

The Guardian framed the new banknote designs as an opportunity to celebrate UK wildlife, including endangered species, while BBC News focused more broadly on the public consultation and political reactions to replacing historical figures.

What We Know — Key Points

  • The Bank of England has shortlisted 18 creatures, including puffins and bumblebees, for new banknote designs.
  • For the first time since 1970, the reverse side of UK banknotes will no longer feature notable historical figures, a decision that has drawn political reactions.
  • The public can participate in a consultation until July 3, selecting up to two examples from each category.
  • The new designs offer an opportunity to celebrate the UK's diverse wildlife, including endangered species.

What Is Claimed — Perspectives

  • BBC NewsCenter

    BBC News provided a balanced overview of the Bank of England's public consultation for new banknote designs, detailing the shortlisted animals and the political reactions to replacing historical figures with wildlife.

  • The GuardianLeft-leaning

    The Guardian emphasized the opportunity presented by the new banknote designs to celebrate the UK's rich and varied wildlife, including endangered species, through public engagement.

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  • Key points, perspectives, bias labels, and categorisation may contain errors.
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