New 50p pieces featuring King Charles available today - where you can get one

09 August 2023 , 23:01

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The latest 50p design (Image: PA)

Fifty pence coins marking the King’s coronation will start appearing in circulation from today

Five million of the coins will be received by the Post Office and UK bank branches. Featuring a design by Royal Mint coin designer Natasha Jenkins, the coins are the second 50ps to enter circulation bearing Charles’s official coin portrait.

The reverse (tails) design of the new 50p, created by Ms Jenkins, features Westminster Abbey. At the centre of the design is the King’s official cypher, representing him at Westminster Abbey being crowned King in May.

Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, said: "We are delighted to announce that five million 50p coins produced to mark His Majesty King Charles III's coronation will enter circulation from today. This is a special moment for the nation, as members of the public will have the opportunity to find a piece of history in their change.

Coins will be the second to feature newest monarch (Getty Images)

"We anticipate the coronation 50p coins will be highly sought after among coin collectors and members of the public keen to own a piece of British history. The Royal Mint has had the honour of striking coins for every British monarch since Alfred the Great and we are proud to continue that long history with the introduction of His Majesty's official coinage."

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All 50p coins entering circulation will feature the King's uncrowned portrait, the Mint said, differing from the commemorative coronation coins that were unveiled earlier this year.

Earlier this year, the Royal Mint unveiled a commemorative coin range marking the coronation. Collectors from 89 countries purchased the coins directly from the Royal Mint. UK coins bearing the effigy of the late Queen will remain legal tender and in active circulation.

Historically it has been commonplace for coins featuring the effigies of different monarchs to co-circulate. This ensures a smooth transition, with minimal environmental impact and cost, the Mint said.

Vicky Shaw