Marie Curie’s Name on Euro Banknote Sparks Franco-Polish Identity Debate

The European Central Bank’s (ECB) proposal to feature Marie Curie on a new €20 banknote has reignited long-standing tensions between France and Poland over the scientific icon’s national identity and historical legacy.

Curie, born Maria Skłodowska in Warsaw in 1867, later moved to France, where she rose to global prominence as a physicist and chemist. She became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize—shared with her husband, Pierre Curie, in 1903 for physics—and later earned a second Nobel in chemistry in 1911, becoming the only individual to receive Nobel Prizes in two different scientific disciplines.

Over the years, she signed her name both as Skłodowska-Curie and simply Marie Curie, reflecting her personal and professional journey across two nations.

Name Dispute Rekindled Over Banknote Design

The ECB’s draft design includes her name as "Marie Curie (née Skłodowska)", a format that has stirred backlash in Poland. Critics argue that placing her Polish surname in parentheses downplays her origins and diminishes Poland’s role in her formative years.

Many in Poland see the issue as symbolic—a reflection of a broader pattern of overlooking Polish contributions to European science and culture. Commentators also noted that other European figures, such as Ludwig van Beethoven and Miguel de Cervantes, are presented using their original names without alteration or omission in international contexts.

ECB Responds to Public Reaction

Responding to the controversy, the ECB stated it is aware of the cultural sensitivities and is reviewing linguistic and historical sources to determine the most respectful and accurate representation.

“The use of both names is meant to reflect her dual heritage,” a bank spokesperson explained. “We are consulting experts to ensure her identity is honored appropriately.”

Banknote Redesign Linked to “European Culture” Theme

In January, the ECB Governing Council revealed two shortlisted themes for the next-generation euro banknotes: “Rivers and Birds” and “European Culture.” If the latter is selected, the proposed design of Marie Skłodowska-Curie—depicting her delivering a lecture in a scholarly setting—will move forward.

The final design decision is expected in 2026, and the selected banknotes will take several more years to enter circulation. Existing euro notes will remain valid and in use during the transition.