Exciting news for coin collectors and everyday spenders alike: the first £1 coins featuring King Charles III have just entered circulation!
With 2.975 million of these coins being distributed to UK Post Offices and banks, they’re a fresh addition to our wallets and piggy banks, marking a new chapter in British currency.
A royal makeover for the £1 coin
The new £1 coin showcases a striking design with King Charles III’s portrait on the “heads” side.
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On the “tails” side, you’ll find a beautiful pair of British bees, symbolising the importance of wildlife in our country—a cause close to the King’s heart.
The designs reflect King Charles III’s passion for conservation, and the £1 coin was voted as the favourite design in a poll by The Royal Mint, receiving nearly 30% of the votes.
Old coins still in circulation
Don’t worry if you don’t get a new coin right away. The £1 coins featuring Queen Elizabeth II will still be in circulation for a while.
As these older coins become worn, they’ll be gradually replaced with the new ones featuring King Charles. So, it’s a gentle transition, and there’s no rush to swap your old coins for new ones.
A growing collection of King Charles coins
The new £1 coin isn’t the first to feature King Charles III. In November 2023, the first coin with his portrait—a 50p coin featuring an Atlantic salmon—was released.
The design includes a unique repeating pattern of three interlocking C’s, inspired by the cypher of Charles II, which unifies all the new coin designs. And there’s more to come!
Future coin designs will include various wildlife species, such as the Hazel Dormouse and Puffin, along with a £2 coin featuring national flowers.
These coins are sure to be popular with collectors and nature lovers alike.
Banknotes getting a royal update too
It’s not just coins that are getting a makeover. Banknotes featuring King Charles began circulating in June 2024.
While the portrait has changed, the designs and colours of the notes remain the same, making it easy for everyone to continue using them without any confusion.
Designed with young minds in mind
The new coins also feature an enlarged number indicating their value, which can help children understand money more easily.
This addition makes the coins not only beautiful but also practical, especially for young learners.
Commemorative sets available
For those interested in owning a piece of history, commemorative sets of the coins are available for purchase on The Royal Mint’s website, with prices starting from £34.
These sets offer a special way to celebrate the new era of British currency.
Keep an eye out for the new coins
Whether you’re a coin collector or simply someone who enjoys a bit of change in their pocket, these new £1 coins are an exciting addition.
Be sure to check your change next time you’re at the shop—you might find one of these shiny new coins with King Charles III’s portrait looking back at you!
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