The Bank of England has decided to replace historical figures, including painter J.M.W. Turner, with depictions of native UK wildlife on its next generation of banknotes. This follows a public consultation where 'Nature' was the most popular theme, selected by 60% of respondents. A panel of six wildlife experts will now create a shortlist of species for a further public vote this summer.
The move marks a significant shift in the cultural symbols chosen for British currency, moving away from individual historical achievements toward a collective celebration of the natural environment. It ends the representation of figures like Turner, Churchill, Austen, and Turing on circulating notes, reflecting a contemporary public preference for themes perceived as unifying and enduring over potentially divisive historical legacies.