Puffins, dolphins and bumblebees in running to feature on new UK banknotes

The Bank of England has released a shortlist of native wildlife, including puffins and dolphins, to feature on new banknotes. The initiative aims to improve anti-counterfeiting security while celebrating British nature, despite some political criticism regarding the selection process.
Why it matters
Currency design updates are essential for national security and public engagement, reflecting cultural priorities and technological advancements in anti-counterfeiting.
The Atlantic puffin is up against other beloved birds such as the barn owl and the white-tailed eagle. Photograph: Christina Bollen/Alamy View image in fullscreen The Atlantic puffin is up against other beloved birds such as the barn owl and the white-tailed eagle. Photograph: Christina Bollen/Alamy Bank of England Puffins, dolphins and bumblebees in running to feature on new UK banknotes Bank of England says updated imagery will celebrate native wildlife while bolstering anti-counterfeit features
The article reports on the controversy neutrally, including quotes from both the Bank and political critics.
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