First King Charles 50p coins enter circulation
King Charles III’s first coins bearing his image will enter circulation from Thursday via post offices across the country.
The millions of 50p coins are the first mass-produced coins carrying the King’s image.
Around half of the total number earmarked for circulation – an estimated 4.9 million – of the new coins are being distributed to post offices.
Coins carrying Queen Elizabeth’s image will still be accepted in shops.
“Today marks a new era for UK coinage, with the effigy of King Charles III appearing on 50ps in circulation,” said Rebecca Morgan, director of collector services at The Royal Mint.
“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.”
Rebecca Morgan
King Charles III coin will enter in phased manner
The coins use an image of the King produced over the course of months by sculptor Martin Jennings.
He used pictures of King Charles on his 70th birthday to create a likeness of the monarch.
The coin has been struck at The Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales.
Post office chief executive Nick Read said: “December is our busiest time of the year so the coin will be entering our network in a phased manner
“If you don’t receive the new 50p in your change on your first visit to a post office you may well get it in your change in a subsequent visit, so keep a look out for it.”
More coins will be released in line with demand. They will replace damaged or worn 50p coins carrying the Queen’s image. There are approximately 27 billion coins with the late Queen’s image circulating in the UK.
