The first coin featuring King Charles III will enter circulation in post offices around the UK from today (8 December), the Royal Mint announced.
The 50p coin will feature the King on one side, and on the reverse a design that originally appeared on the 1953 Coronation Crown. It includes the four quarters of the Royal Arms, depicted within a shield.
Post Office branches across the UK will receive 4.9 million 50p coins with the King’s effigy, which will be distributed as change when customers make a purchase at a branch.
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In total, 9.6 million 50p coins will enter circulation and the rest will be released in line with demand. Currently there are about 27 billion coins circulating in the UK bearing the image of the Queen – which remain legal tender.
The Royal Mint has been making coins for over 1,100 years and is “proud to continue this tradition into the reign of King Charles III”, said Rebecca Mogan, director of collector services at the Royal Mint.
“Today marks a new era for UK coinage, with the effigy of King Charles III appearing on 50ps in circulation. It’s a fantastic opportunity for coin collectors to add to their collections or start one for the first time,” said Morgan.
“We anticipate a new generation of coin collectors emerging, with people keeping a close eye on their change to try and spot a new 50p that bears the portrait of our new King.”
What’s happening to the old coins?
“All coins bearing the effigy of her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will remain legal tender and in active circulation,” said Nick Read, chief executive officer of the Post Office.
“Historically it has been commonplace for coins featuring the effigies of different monarchs to co-circulate,” said Read, “this ensures a smooth transition, with minimal environmental impact and cost.”
Related article: What to do with old £20 and £10 notes
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