The Queen’s funeral was less than a fortnight ago, but we’re already starting to see concrete changes happening to mark the start of King Charles III’s reign – from a new national anthem to different postboxes, stamps and even ketchup bottles.
In exciting news for numismatists, the new coins featuring the portrait of King Charles have now been revealed. The fresh 50p carrying his image could enter general circulation within weeks, and there will also be a special commemorative £5 Crown coin. Both will include an image of the king by British sculptor Martin Jennings.
In line with centuries of tradition, the design will now show the monarch facing left, the opposite way to his predecessor the Queen. He will not wear a crown, and rather than writing Carolus, the Latin version of his name in line with tradition, the coins will say Charles III.
Want to get your hands on this seriously hot cash? You won’t have too long to wait. The coins will be sold to collectors by The Royal Mint from early next week, and the 50p coin is planned to be available for general use before the end of the year, distributed by banks, building societies and post offices.
From the start of next year, coins from the 1p to the £2 will be minted carrying the same image of King Charles, and will be sent out to replace damaged older coins. But if you have a wad of old change hanging around in your piggy bank, don’t worry. The new coins will co-circulate with coins featuring the late Queen, so you’ll still be able to use them in shops.
ICYMI: what will happen to coins, stamps and passports now the Queen has died?
Plus: these are officially the most brilliantly colourful streets in the UK.