Obverse. Photo © Royal Mint
  • 1 Penny 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III
  • 1 Penny 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III
  • 1 Penny 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 2023: Tudor crown privy mark
  • 1 Penny 2023-2024, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, 2023: Proof coin set
  • 1 Penny 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 hazel dormouse on the right, the denomination and an interlocked C, reminiscent of King Charles II's royal cypher, on the left side.

The hazel dormouse is the sole native dormouse in the British Isles, while the edible dormouse has been introduced in South East England. In 2010, hazel dormice were discovered in County Kildare, Ireland, and are spreading due to hedgerow prevalence. A 2020 study reported a 51% decline in UK hazel dormouse populations since 2000, with habitat loss and climate change posing significant threats. The hazel dormouse is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act in the UK.

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
1
PENNY

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Gold
Fineness 0.91667
Weight 6.98 g
Diameter 20.32 mm
Thickness 1.5 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

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