For the first time since 1953, the King’s head will appear on an Australian coin. For most Australians, this will be the first time they have held a coin with a King’s effigy on it.
The first collector and investment coins bearing the King’s effigy are expected to be available for sale early next year.
The Australian Government unveiled the official Commonwealth Effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, which is set to make its debut on Australian circulating coins, produced by the Royal Australian Mint.
This distinguished effigy, designed by The Royal Mint in London with Royal Approval, marks a significant moment in Australia’s numismatic history.
The Australian $1 coin will be the first coins with the new monarch’s effigy. They will soon find its way into banks and cash registers nationwide, just in time for the festive season.
In the coming year, 2024, other denominations will follow suit. The mint will gauge demand from financial institutions to work out how many coins of each denomination will be required.
As is traditional, the new effigy will switch direction. Queen Elizabeth II faced to the right. King Charles III will face to the left.
God save the King, and numismatists will save the coins!
Numismatic enthusiasts and investors can anticipate the availability of collector and investment coins featuring the King’s effigy in the early part of the upcoming year. This release is poised to be a notable event for those with a passion for collecting and investing in Australian coinage.
Royal Australian Mint CEO, Leigh Gordon AO CSM
“These coins will circulate by the millions across Australia for many years.
“Australians can rest assured that all existing coins featuring the late Queen’s effigy can continue to be used.”
Royal Australian Mint CEO, Leigh Gordon AO CSM
Final effigy for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
The Royal Australian Mint utilised a new design in 2023 for the obverse side of commemorative Australian coins, paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following her passing.
The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Obverse graced collectible and investment coins from the 1st of January 2023 until coins featuring the new effigy of King Charles could be designed, minted and circulated.
In commemoration of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s reign since her coronation in 1953, this poignant design will be the seventh effigy of the Queen to feature on Australian coins.
Crafted by British engraver Jody Clark, the Memorial Obverse carries a distinguished addition – it will bear the inscription “Elizabeth II 1952-2022,” marking the years of her remarkable reign.
This design serves as a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of Her Majesty.
Naturally, existing Australian legal tender coins bearing the Queen’s effigy will remain in circulation and remain legal tender forever.
“This final series of collectable coins will serve as a lasting tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and a reminder for all Australians of her 70 years of service to Australia and the Commonwealth.”
Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh said
Further Reading
Pirate Guide to Collecting Australian Coins: 2023/2024 Edition, November 2, 2023 by Damian Walker
Renniks Australian Coin & Banknote Values 31st Edition Hardcover
A Guide Book of United States Coins 2022 75th Edition Spiral-bound by Garrett, Jeff, Bowers
Paper Money – North America – Australia – Oceania: COLOR PHOTOGRAPHY Paper money – Old and Rare Banknote (Banknotes of the world)
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