The official effigy of King Charles III, which will be used on coins after his succession to the throne, was unveiled by Britain’s Royal Mint on Friday.
The effigy was created by British sculptor Martin Jennings and was given the new king’s personal approval.
A unique o5 coin and a 50p coin honoring the life of Queen Elizabeth II will be the first coins with the king’s likeness.
Jennings claimed that a photo of the Charles served as the model for his portrait.
“It is the smallest work I have created, but it is humbling to know it will be seen and held by people around the world for centuries to come,” he said.
According to royal custom, Charles’s portrait faces to the left, away from his late mother.
The effigy’s border is inscribed in Latin with the words “King Charles III, by the Grace of God, Defender of the Faith.”
In the upcoming months, Charles’ likeness will start to appear on commemorative items and circulation coins, the Royal Mint announced in a statement.
On the reversal of the commemorative five pound coin, there will be two brand-new images of Elizabeth.
Since Alfred the Great, the Royal Mint has been in charge of producing coins with images of rulers. Elizabeth died on September 8 following a record-breaking 70 years on the throne.
Kevin Clancy, director of the Royal Mint Museum, said late queen had appeared on more coins than any other British monarch.
“Over the coming years it will become common for people to find coins bearing His Majesty and Queen Elizabeth II’s effigy in their change,” he said.
The Royal Mint said historically it had been commonplace for coins featuring the effigies of different monarchs to co-circulate.
“This ensures a smooth transition, with minimal environmental impact and cost.”
There are currently around 27 billion coins circulating in the UK bearing the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II.
“These will be replaced over time as they become damaged or worn and to meet demand for additional coins,” the Royal Mint added.
