The first new coins with the effigy of King Charles have finally been unveiled.
The new monarch will replace his mother to become the first king on British coins since 1952.
People will start to notice his regal portrait in their change from around December as the 50p coins gradually enter circulation.
Chris Barker, from the Royal Mint Museum, said Charles’ image was ‘dignified and graceful, which reflects his years of service’.
In keeping with tradition, the King’s effigy on the new money faces to the left – the opposite direction to the Queen.
Before then, the Mint will release a memorial coin range on Monday morning in a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of Her Majesty.
Charles’ portrait will appear on both the special commemorative £5 Crown and 50p coins.
Nicola Howell, chief commercial officer at the Mint said: ‘We expect customers will start to be able to receive the commemorative range from October and then we expect the 50p memorial circulating coin to be appearing in people’s change probably from December.’
The Latin inscription surrounding the King’s effigy reads ‘• CHARLES III • D • G • REX • F • D • 5 POUNDS • 2022’.
It translated to ‘King Charles III, by the Grace of God, Defender of the Faith’.
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The portrait was created by sculptor Martin Jennings, and was personally approved by Charles, the Mint said.
The reverse of the commemorative £5 coin features two new portraits of the Queen.
It will form part of a wider memorial coin collection.
Meanwhile, the reverse of the 50p features a design that originally appeared on the 1953 Coronation Crown.
It was struck to commemorate Queen’s coronation at Westminster Abbey, and includes the four quarters of the Royal Arms depicted within a shield.
In between each shield is an emblem of the home nations – a rose, a thistle, a shamrock and a leek.
Anne Jessopp, chief executive officer of the Royal Mint, said: ‘The Royal Mint has been trusted to make coins bearing the monarch’s effigy for over 1,100 years and we are proud to continue this tradition into the reign of King Charles III.
‘Although technology has progressed, we continue to honour British craftsmanship passed down through the centuries.
‘Our team of skilled modellers, tool makers and engravers will ensure that the King’s effigy will be faithfully replicated onto millions of coins.
‘Her Late Majesty ruled with heart and devotion for 70 years, and this memorial collection commemorates her remarkable legacy as Britain’s longest-serving monarch.
‘To ensure everyone can hold a piece of history in their hand, the 50p will also enter circulation in the UK.’
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