New Coin Designs Unveiled by the Royal Mint
Breaking Tradition with Nature-Inspired Designs
October 12, 2023
A new collection of coins bearing the face of King Charles has been unveiled by the Royal Mint, marking a departure from tradition with nature-inspired designs. The eight coin designs, overseen by King Charles himself, depict the flora and fauna found across the four nations of the United Kingdom, reflecting the monarch’s interest in conservation and nature.
Embracing British Nature
The new coin collection showcases animals and plants that are significant to the British natural landscape. The 1p coin features a hazel dormouse, the 2p coin depicts a red squirrel, the 5p coin displays an oak tree leaf, the 10p coin represents the critically endangered woodland grouse called the capercaillie, the 20p coin showcases a puffin, the 50p coin features a salmon, the £1 coin highlights two bees, and finally, the £2 coin incorporates the symbols of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland – a rose, a daffodil, a thistle, and a shamrock, respectively.
A Shift in Design and Symbolism
These new coin designs will eventually replace the current shield coinage, which bears the emblem of the home nations: a rose, a thistle, a shamrock, and a leek. Introduced under Queen Elizabeth II in 2008, the new designs mark a departure from the heraldry-focused tradition in British coinage. Instead, they celebrate the natural beauty and diversity of the United Kingdom.
Reflecting the Era and the Monarch
Chris Barker, information and research manager at the Royal Mint Museum, commented on the significance of the new coin designs, calling them a “watershed moment” in British coinage history. He highlighted that the designs reflect the era of climate change and the monarch under which they are issued. King Charles has long been dedicated to nature and conservation, making these coins a testament to his lifelong commitment.
Emphasizing Access and Engagement
Nicola Howell, chief commercial officer at the Royal Mint, emphasized the aim of engaging younger audiences through the new coin designs. Not only do they foster numeracy skills, but they also spark conversations about the value of money and conservation. The large numbering on the coins also aids tourists who may be unfamiliar with the British coinage system.
In Servitio Omnium – In the Service of All
The Latin inscription surrounding the edge of the £2 coin was chosen by King Charles himself. It reads “In servitio omnium,” which translates to “In the service of all.” This inscription is taken from the king’s inaugural speech in September of the previous year.
A Collaborative Effort
Gordon Summers, the chief Royal Mint engraver, oversaw the design process for the new coins. An advisory committee at the Royal Mint and support from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) also contributed to the creation of these nature-inspired designs.
With the new coin collection set to be in circulation by the end of the year, it is anticipated that these coins will not only serve as a means of financial exchange but also as conversation starters that raise awareness and appreciation for the beauty and importance of British nature.
<< photo by Kanchanara >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
