As the Bank of England seeks views on who should feature on its next series of banknotes, we asked you for your ideas – and lots of you got in touch.
The Bank suggested notable historical figures, architecture and landmarks, noteworthy events in history and themes like innovation and nature.
It will not represent living people on its banknotes, with the exception of the monarch.
Even so, many readers were quick to suggest Sir David Attenborough…
He’s a British institution and underpins British values alongside his contributions to conservation and raising awareness.
Alex
He has dedicated his life for change, now it’s our turn for a thank you. Also the fight for climate change and the future for all.
Daniel
Others favoured a musical theme…
I would like to see the Beatles on a banknote because they represent an era and an industry which was leading the world, an era in which young people had optimism about the future.
Nostalgic
Some took a sporting route…
What is my idea for the new UK notes? I think it should be the Lionesses as they are an icon of UK.
Grahamr72
One reader suggested a variety of names from film, literature and science…
£5 – Charlie Chaplin
£10 – Agatha Christie
£20 – JRR Tolkien
£50 – Stephen Hawking
Jamie, Manchester
But others thought the Bank shouldn’t break with the past…
What I’d suggest for the bank note redesign – sticking with portraits of historical figures:
£5 – William Blake
£10 – Emmeline Pankhurst
£20 – Isambard Kingdom Brunel
£50 – Francis Drake
Graham
Looking into the story/works of people who appear on currency can do wonders to instil good values. I feel 20th century philosophers would generate some interest in deeper thinking. People like Gilbert Ryle, Alan Watts and Bertrand Russell.
Herdy
Some readers didn’t want people featured at all…
The Bank should use pictures of iconic landmarks like the palaces and castles or other maybe one of the many football stadiums around the isles.
Alix Virtue
I’d vote for architecture and landscape. Definitely not sport as sport is transient and focused on living people which is against the rules.
We should avoid the 1966 World Cup, battles in Europe or elsewhere, and anything linked to colonialism.
Mary G
I would like to see British wildlife on banknotes. From the land, sea and air.
Carol from Waterbeach
What about the Industrial Revolution. Chimneys, factories, etc. A special time in history.
Alan Willmore
I think the new banknotes should have: Caernarfon Castle, Stonehenge, Angel of the North, Lincoln Cathedral
Coneshifter
Suggestions can be submitted on an online form on the Bank’s website or by post.
The consultation closes at 11.59pm on 31 July.
