06 January 2023
|
The Royal Mint has revealed the first commemorative coins for 2023 to bear His Majesty The King’s official coinage portrait, with the 2023 set celebrating topics including the 75th anniversary of the NHS and Life and Work of JRR Tolkien.
The Royal Mint's 2023 coins have been revealed giving collectors their first chance to own a set of 2023 dated coins that feature King Charles III portrait. The coins in the set are as follows:
- The 75th Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III £5 coin
- Celebrating the Life and Work of JRR Tolkien £2
- Celebrating the Centenary of Flying Scotsman £2
- 75 Years of the National Health Service 50p
- 75 Years of the Windrush Generation 50p
The Royal Mint unveiled His Majesty’s portrait in September 2022, as part of Queen Elizabeth II memorial coin range and all new coins struck from 1 January 2023 will now bear King Charles III portrait.
The unveiling of this collection of coins symbolises one of the biggest changes to UK coins since decimalisation. Collectors will see UK coins begin their transition from Britain’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait, to King Charles III’s which will now appear on all UK coinage moving forward.
Rebecca Morgan, Divisional Director of the Collector Services at The Royal Mint said:
“Each year The Royal Mint reveals a collection of coins, known as the Annual Set, which feature a range of designs that appear on £5, £2 and 50p coins marking some of the year’s most significant moments and anniversaries.
"This year is particularly special for The Royal Mint, as we unveil the first coins of 2023 bearing His Majesty King Charles III official coin portrait, which also includes a commemorative £5 coin to celebrate His Majesty’s 75th birthday. The Annual Set provides members of the public with an opportunity to collect the very first coins of 2023 with The King’s portrait and mark this historic transition in monarchy on coins.”
The 2023 commemorative sets will be available in a range of precious metal and base proof finishes, from 3 January at The Royal Mint website, with prices starting from £50. Each of the coins will be available individually in 2023.
