Obverse. Photo © Royal Mint
  • 2 Pence 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III
  • 2 Pence 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III
  • 2 Pence 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 2023: Tudor crown privy mark
  • 2 Pence 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 2023: Proof coin set
  • 2 Pence 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 2024: Proof annual coin set
Description

On October 12, 2023, The Royal Mint revealed the new designs for circulation coins during King Charles III's reign. These designs, spanning from one penny to two pounds, showcase Britain's natural habitat and wildlife, reflecting the King's strong commitment to conservation.

Obverse

Depicts King Charles III’s effigy, surrounded by the Latin inscription. Engraver's initials on the neck.

The 2023 coins issued in the Brilliant Uncirculated & Proof sets featured a special Tudor crown privy mark.

CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX FIDEI DEFENSOR means King Charles III, by the Grace of God King, Defender of the Faith.

Engraver: Martin Jennings (MJ)

CHARLES III·DEI·GRA·REX·FID·DEF·2024 ·
MJ

Reverse

Depicts a red squirrel on the right, the denomination and an interlocked C, reminiscent of King Charles II's royal cypher, on the left side.

Red squirrels, primarily located in Scotland (75% of their population), can also be found in Northern Ireland, the Isle of Wight, Brownsea Island, Anglesey, Cumbria, Kielder Forest, and Formby. Conservation efforts aim to prevent their extinction in the UK. These squirrels are a frequent symbol in English heraldry, typically depicted upright and often shown cracking a nut.

The design is a collaboration between Royal Mint artisans, engravers, and overseen by Gordon Summers, the Royal Mint’s chief engraver, involved support from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB).

CCC
2 PENCE

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Gold
Fineness 0.91667
Weight 13.96 g
Diameter 25.9 mm
Thickness 2.05 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

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