Swiss National Bank Unveils 'Switzerland and its Altitudes' Banknote Designs

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has unveiled an ambitious initiative to redesign its national currency, launching a public consultation for a new series of banknotes themed 'Switzerland and its Altitudes.' This landmark project represents Switzerland's commitment to maintaining its reputation for world-class currency design while celebrating the nation's unique geographical features.

The initiative marks a significant milestone in Swiss monetary history, as it opens the design selection process to public input for the first time, demonstrating the SNB's commitment to transparency and public engagement.

The competition has attracted significant attention from the design community, resulting in twelve distinctive proposals that interpret the theme of 'Switzerland and its Altitudes' through various artistic approaches. Each design submission aims to capture the essence of Switzerland's varied elevations, from its lowland regions to its iconic Alpine peaks.

The theme choice reflects Switzerland's unique topographical identity and its historical relationship with its mountainous terrain. The designs are expected to incorporate advanced security features while maintaining artistic excellence, a hallmark of Swiss banknote design.

The selection process combines public participation with expert evaluation. From August 13 to September 7, 2025, the public can participate in an opinion survey to evaluate the proposed designs. Simultaneously, an advisory board comprising external experts will assess the technical and artistic merits of each submission.

Following the initial evaluation, the six most promising designs will advance to the second stage of the competition. The SNB expects to announce the winning design in early 2026, with the new banknotes scheduled to enter circulation in the early 2030s. This extended timeline ensures thorough testing and implementation of security features.

The new banknote series represents more than just a currency update; it embodies Switzerland's cultural identity and its deep connection to its geographical landscape. The 'Switzerland and its Altitudes' theme celebrates the country's unique topographical diversity, from its urban centers to its majestic mountain peaks.

This initiative also demonstrates Switzerland's ongoing commitment to excellence in currency design and security, maintaining its position as a global leader in banknote innovation. The public consultation process reflects the Swiss values of democratic participation and collective decision-making.