In November 2018, The Bank of England opened nominations for a scientist to be the face of the new £50 note. In a six week period, The Bank received 227,299 nominations which led to a list of 989 eligible names of people who are real, deceased and have contributed to science. After much deliberation, Alan Turing was the scientist who was chosen.
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There was a huge array of different fields to choose from including astronomy, biology, bio-technology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, medical research, physics, technology and zoology.
The announcement was streamed live on YouTube and can be watched here:
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The Bank has said that the new note will be made from polymer which lasts around two and a half times longer than their paper counterparts.
The previous note, which first came to light in 2011 features leading lights of the industrial revolution Matthew Boulton and James Watt.
Graham Kentfield, chief cashier of the Bank of England, the man whose signature appears on all Bank of England notes:
The Treasury say the notes will be much harder to forge.
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The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Robert Jenrick, said: "Our coins and notes are respected and recognised the world over and are a key part of the UK's heritage and identity.
"People should have as much choice as possible when it comes to their money, and we're making sure that cash is here to stay.
Our money needs to be secure and this new note will help prevent crime."
I think it's safe to say that the public have made a great decision on the face of the £50 note. It's just a pity than I'll never be rich enough to own one.
Featured Image Credit: YouTube / Bank Of EnglandTopics: UK News, Bank of England, Money, Interesting, currency