The Albanese Government is today releasing the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III which will soon start appearing on circulating coins produced by the Royal Australian Mint.
The new effigy of His Majesty King Charles III is the official Commonwealth Effigy designed by The Royal Mint in London with Royal Approval.
The first coin to have the King’s effigy will be the $1 coin. The coins will start appearing in banks and cash registers across the country before Christmas.
The other denominations will be progressively released in 2024, based on bank demand.
The first collector and investment coins bearing the King’s effigy are expected to be available for sale early next year.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Employment, Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh:
“For seven decades, Australians have seen a Queen on their coins. Every decimal currency coin has featured Queen Elizabeth II. Now, for the first time since 1953, the King’s effigy will appear on an Australian coin. For most Australians, this will be the first time they have held in their hands a coin with a King.
“As is traditional, the new effigy will switch direction. Queen Elizabeth II faced to the right. King Charles III will face to the left.
Quotes attributable to Royal Australian Mint CEO, Leigh Gordon AO CSM:
“One of the most asked questions since The Queen’s passing has been when The King will appear on our coins.
“As Australia’s circulating coin manufacturer, we appreciate the importance of the transition, and we are applying our considerable skill and expertise producing Australia’s coins bearing the new royal effigy.
“The staff at the Mint have been very deliberate and measured in the steps to date, and we are now well positioned to expand into production.
“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.”