A historic moment is unfolding in UK coinage. The final batch of £1 coins featuring the late Queen Elizabeth II has just entered circulation, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in British history. At the same time, more coins bearing the portrait of King Charles III are being released into tills and purses across the country. Together, these events symbolise both continuity and change in our national currency.
For collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone who handles coins daily, this is an exciting transition — and it may even create rare and valuable pieces worth holding on to.
The Last of the Queen Elizabeth II £1 Coins
The Royal Mint has confirmed that more than 23 million £1 coins dated 2021 and 2022 are entering circulation. These coins, although struck up to four years ago, are only now being issued due to strong demand for £1 coins.
Among them, the 2022-dated £1 coins are set to become particularly significant. With just 7.735 million released, they will be the rarest of their kind in circulation. For collectors, rarity is always an important factor, and these coins may quickly become sought after in the years to come.
These final issues also carry deeper meaning: they are the last circulating £1 coins to feature the image of Queen Elizabeth II, whose reign spanned over seven decades.
The Arrival of King Charles III Coins
Alongside the Queen’s final coins, the Royal Mint has begun to release a further 7.5 million £1 coins featuring King Charles III. His portrait has appeared on UK coins since 2023, starting with the £1 and 50p denominations, and more designs are gradually being introduced.
The £1 coin carries a bee design on the reverse, reflecting the King’s well-known commitment to the environment and nature. This coin is one of eight new designs that will eventually cover all UK coin denominations, from the penny to the £2. The themes celebrate Britain’s wildlife, including the red squirrel, puffin, and dormouse.
The designs also feature larger numerals on the coins, intended to help children identify numbers more easily while learning to count. It’s a thoughtful modernisation that combines practicality with tradition.
Coins in Transition: What This Means for Everyday Change
Although these new coins are now entering circulation, the vast majority of coins in your pocket will still feature Queen Elizabeth II. Of the 24.7 billion coins currently in circulation, King Charles’s coins make up only a fraction — around 0.004%. That means spotting one in your change will feel special for some time yet.
Importantly, all coins featuring the Queen remain legal tender and will continue circulating alongside the King’s coins for years to come. On average, coins last around 20 years in circulation, so the public will see both monarchs represented on currency well into the future.
Quick Facts About the New £1 Coins
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23 million Queen Elizabeth II £1 coins (dated 2021–2022) are entering circulation.
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7.735 million 2022 coins will be the rarest in circulation.
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7.5 million King Charles III £1 coins are being released at the same time.
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The King’s £1 coin features a bee design, reflecting his passion for nature.
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Future designs will include a red squirrel, puffin, and dormouse.
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King Charles coins currently make up just 0.004% of the UK’s 24.7 billion coins.
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All Queen Elizabeth coins remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the King’s for decades.
A Collecting Opportunity
For many, this transition may spark an interest in coin collecting. The Royal Mint has even suggested that finding a new King Charles coin in your change could be the start of a rewarding hobby. With limited numbers of some issues — like the 2022-dated £1 coin — the potential for rarity adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Collectors often look out for coins from transitional periods like this one, rare dates and low mintage figures, as well as unique designs, errors, or unusual features. Even everyday coins can sometimes become valuable over time if they’re kept in good condition and prove to be scarce.
What to Do with Your Old Coins
While collectors may prize certain rare or transitional coins, many people simply end up with jars of loose change, old coins, or even obsolete currencies that no longer hold everyday value. That’s where we can help.
At Cash4Coins.co.uk, we specialise in exchanging coins and banknotes that banks often refuse — including exchanging foreign coins and notes, obsolete pre-euro currencies, old British and Irish coins, and leftover travel currency. Instead of letting them gather dust, you can quickly and easily turn them into spendable cash or even donate them to charity.
Summary
The release of the final Queen Elizabeth II £1 coins, alongside the arrival of new King Charles III designs, represents a once-in-a-generation moment in British coinage. It’s not just the passing of history from one monarch to another — it’s also a chance to reflect on the role coins play in our lives, from everyday transactions to cherished collections.
Whether you’re on the lookout for rare dates, excited to spot a new design in your change, or simply wondering what to do with your unwanted coins, there’s value in every penny and pound.
And remember: if you’ve got coins you don’t need, Cash4Coins.co.uk makes it fast, simple, and hassle-free to exchange them — giving new life to old money.
Need Help
Contact our friendly experts on 0161 635 0000 or email admin@cash4coins.co.uk