King Charles III shares a penny coin with honeybees
King Charles III's reign over the British monetary scene is gaining momentum, particularly in regard to banknotes and coins. The central bank is now putting out nearly three million new pound coins, adorned with the king's likeness. These coins highlight the monarch's dedication to environmental conservation, as evident in the design choices.
Approaching its second year since his ascension, King Charles III's image is finally making its way onto British pound coins. The Mint of Royal Britain has announced that around three million of these coins will be distributed. One side of the coin represents a couple of bees, a representation of the monarch's love for nature and environmental protection. The regal portrait of the King is featured on the other side. Since November 2023, a 50-pence coin with an Atlantic salmon has been in circulation.
As stated by Barbara Morgan, the responsible director of the Mint of Royal Britain, "We aim for the designs of all coin denominations to ignite meaningful discussions on the conservation of these key species." The other coins bearing the King's image, to be progressively introduced, also accentuate the head of state's environmental commitment.
A field mouse graces the 1-pence coin, while a red squirrel adorns the 2-pence piece. The 5-pence coin features an oak leaf, the 10-pence coin displays a golden pheasant, and the 20-pence coin showcases a puffin. The £2 coin exhibits the national flowers of the United Kingdom's four constituent countries: rose (England), daffodil (Wales), thistle (Scotland), and shamrock (Northern Ireland).
In total, 2,975 million 1-pound coins will be released through banks and post offices. Charles has reigned as the British King, taking the throne following the demise of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022. Coins featuring Elizabeth's likeness continue to circulate and retain their validity. King Charles III's image has also been featured on banknotes since June.
The monarchy's commitment to environmental conservation continues with King Charles III's new coin designs, as evident in the inclusion of bees and other species on the coins. The monarchy's environmental message is further reinforced through the use of these symbols on coins during King Charles III's reign.
