The monarch’s nature-inspired designs take top spot among collectors, surpassing a 15-year record
King Charles III has achieved a unique milestone during his reign, as banknotes and coins featuring his portrait have officially entered circulation. Notably, a 50p coin designed under his direction has been named "the nation’s most collectable coin," dethroning the previous titleholder, the 2009 Kew Gardens 50p, for the first time in 15 years.
The coins, first introduced in September 2022 and issued in June 2024, reflect Charles’s personal touch, particularly his dedication to environmental causes. On the reverse side of the coins, Charles chose nature-inspired designs, starting with the Atlantic Salmon 50p, which entered circulation at the end of 2023. Only 200,000 of these coins have been released, making them rarer than the Kew Gardens edition, and highly sought after by collectors.
Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, noted the significance, stating, "Finding these special designs, like the Atlantic Salmon, in your change is a win for all collectors." This milestone reflects both King Charles's influence and the public’s appreciation for his unique contribution to British currency design.
