Coronation 50p goes into circulation

Featuring a design produced by Royal Mint coin designer Natasha Jenkins to celebrate His Majesty’s coronation earlier this year, the new coin is the second 50p to enter circulation bearing His Majesty’s official coin portrait.

The first was the Memorial 50p, which entered circulation in December 2022, marking the historic transition from Queen Elizabeth II to King Charles III.

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The reverse design of the new 50p features the iconic Westminster Abbey, in a nod to the location of His Majesty’s coronation. At the centre of the design is The King’s official cypher, representing him being crowned at Westminster Abbey.

The obverse features His Majesty’s official coin portrait designed by British sculptor Martin Jennings and personally approved by The King. All 50p coins entering circulation will feature His Majesty’s uncrowned portrait, differing from the commemorative coronation coins that were unveiled to the public earlier this year.

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. 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.

'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.’