The first coins bearing the likeness of King Charles III. (73) are coined. This was announced by the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales, this Friday (October 28). Initially, 50 pence pieces went into production, which, according to the announcement, should end up in British wallets before Christmas. The reverse shows the design that appeared on the coin commemorating the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) at Westminster Abbey in 1953. 9.6 million copies are to be manufactured.

The coin collection was presented at the end of September. British sculptor Martin Jennings (65) designed the new coins, and Charles "personally approved" them, the website says. "It's the smallest work I've created, but it's awe-inspiring to know that it will be seen and held by people around the world for centuries to come," Jennings explains, adding that the embossing is inspired by a Photo was created by Charles.

The embossing follows a tradition in that the portrait of Charles faces left while that of his mother faces right. In the portrait he is not wearing a crown; the words "King Charles III, by the Grace of God, Defender of the Faith" frame the portrait. The previous coins remain valid. Gradually, however, the money should be exchanged.