Aussies, get ready to swap out your Queen Lizzy coins for some new royal currency! Over a year since the Queen's passing, Australia has introduced sparkling new 1-dollar coins featuring the one and only King Charles III. With a whopping 3.5 million coins already in banks and making their way into pockets, this transformation is really something to buzz about!
But don't worry, your beloved Queen Elizabeth II coins aren't going anywhere just yet. You've got until 2023 (and beyond!) to keep on using those beauties. Deputy Minister of Finance, Andrew Leigh, has even called the introduction of these new coins a major milestone for Australia, as it marks the first time in history most Aussies get to hold a dollar coin with a king's grin.
This monarchial tradition is as old as time, and King Charles III is totally game to join in on the fun. Just like his grandma, he'll be looking to the left on our coins. While Queen Eliza II graced the five-dollar note with her rightward gaze, the Reserve Bank of Australia announced earlier this year that the five-dollar bill would be getting a makeover, with no sign of Eliza's beautiful visage in sight.
Extra Cuppa: Even though there's a new wave of coins coming our way, don't fret about Queen Elizabeth II coins becoming completely obsolete. Australia's connection with the motherland has always been deep and lasting. The introduction of these 'Charles III' dollar coins is a testament to Australia's steadfast role in the rich traditions of the Commonwealth and the ancient custom of monarchy.
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The first definitive coin portrait of King Charles III was unveiled in late September 2022. And while definitive coins featuring King Charles III's likeness are yet to be released, the UK's large number of coins in circulation, around 29 billion, means Queen Elizabeth II coins will likely continue to circulate alongside those featuring King Charles III's face.
In Australia, a 2024 $1 King Charles III Circulated Premium Coin Roll, featuring Daniel Thorne’s portrait of Charles III and the iconic Mob of Kangaroos motif by Stuart Devlin, is already available. There is currently no announced date for the obsolescence or replacement of these coins in circulation.
