(Boursier.com) – Charles III will be crowned on May 6… Meanwhile, the first coins bearing his likeness went into circulation in the United Kingdom on Thursday, according to an official press release. Post offices across the country will receive 4.9 million new coins worth 50 pence (about 60 euro cents).

The Royal Mint, which is in charge of British currency, remembers that the new monarch’s face is turned in the opposite direction of the monarch before him. So Charles looks to the left. Her portrait, created by British sculptor Martin Jennings, was personally approved by King Charles.

Today marks a new era in British coinage. The first circulating 50 ps is in circulation featuring the first coin portrait of King Charles III by Martin Jennings. We will send 4.9 million to 9,452 @post Office Branches throughout December – so watch your change! pic.twitter.com/M6Mv607TK0 >- The Royal Mint (@RoyalMintUK), via Twitter

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The reverse side of the coin “commemorates the life and legacy of the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth,” reads a statement. It is a design that appeared on the Crown at the beginning of the reign in 1953, which includes the Royal Coat of Arms and an emblem of the British kingdoms: Rose (England), Thistle (Scotland), Shamrock (Ireland) and Leek (Wales).

According to the Royal Mint, 9.6 million new coins will initially be put into circulation, while Elizabethan likenesses will remain valid and will be gradually replaced.

Around 27 billion coins are currently in circulation in the UK. The first notes featuring Charles will go into circulation by mid-2024.