A Royal Milestone in Coinage: The Coat of Arms of His Majesty King Charles III
On 8 September 2022, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, His Majesty King Charles III acceded to the throne — a moment that marked both reflection and renewal for the British monarchy. Now, in 2025, a major numismatic milestone marks this new reign: the first UK coin to feature the Royal Coat of Arms of King Charles III.
More than just a design, the Royal Arms are a time-honoured symbol of monarchy and national authority — and this historic debut offers collectors a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a significant artefact of royal transition.
The Royal Arms Reimagined
For more than a thousand years, the Royal Arms have symbolised the authority, heritage, and continuity of the British Crown. Displayed on official state documents, courtrooms, government buildings, and even British passports, this heraldic emblem embodies the unity and sovereignty of the realm.
Image Credit: Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
During Queen Elizabeth II’s reign (1952–2022), her Royal Arms were ever-present and, at times, even appeared on coinage. Yet, this is the first time the personal Royal Coat of Arms of King Charles III has featured on a UK coin, offering a powerful expression of royal continuity and modern monarchy.
The 2025 Coat of Arms £5 coin showcases a newly commissioned design by Timothy Noad, one of Britain’s most celebrated heraldic artists. His interpretation honours the enduring traditions of the monarchy while introducing elegant modern detail.
Key elements of the design include:
- The crowned shield, representing the nations of the UK
- The lion of England and unicorn of Scotland as noble supporters
- Heraldic flourishes symbolising duty, unity, and royal heritage
It is a timeless composition that reflects His Majesty’s lifelong commitment to tradition, the environment, and public service.
A History of Royal Arms on UK Coinage
While this is the first appearance of King Charles III’s Royal Arms, it joins a respected legacy of coinage bearing royal heraldry.
Under Queen Elizabeth II, the Royal Arms first appeared on the inaugural £1 coin, introduced in 1983 to replace the paper £1 note. The design by Eric Sewell, then Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint, featured a stylised version of Her Late Majesty’s Arms and became one of the most recognisable modern coin motifs.
The Royal Arms £1 was issued in:
Right: The 2015 Royal Coat of Arms £1 was one of the last commemorative round pound designs
- 1983 – the very first year of the £1 coin
- 1993, 2003, and 2008 – each marking notable updates or anniversaries
In 2015, Timothy Noad was once again called upon to reimagine the Royal Arms for a commemorative issue of the round pound. Although that design did not enter circulation, it remains one of the last and most admired heraldic designs issued before the £1 coin was reshaped into its current 12-sided form.
The 2025 £5 release, therefore, represents not just a first for King Charles III, but also a historic continuation of the Royal Arms tradition on UK coinage — deeply valued by collectors with a passion for royal and constitutional heritage.
This historic debut is commemorated through an exceptional range of coins — each one a tribute to regal craftsmanship and British identity.
Why This Range Matters to Royal Collectors
- Commemorates a significant transition in the British monarchy
- Introduces the Royal Arms of King Charles III in official coinage for the first time
- Designs by Timothy Noad blend historic heraldry with refined modern artistry
- Every edition is produced to premium numismatic standards
- Rarity across the silver, Piedfort, and gold coins ensures high desirability and long-term collector value
Whether you’re a long-time royal enthusiast or a discerning investor in historic artefacts, the 2025 UK King Charles III Royal Arms coin range represents a landmark addition to your collection — and a tangible connection to the modern history of the Crown.