Posts Tagged ‘king charles III’
BRAND NEW: The Gruffalo’s Child 50p Coin
The Gruffalo, a tale that has captivated children and adults alike since its release in 1999, has become an iconic piece of children’s literature. Written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, this story of a clever mouse outwitting a host of woodland creatures, including the fearsome Gruffalo, has sold an astounding 13.5 million copies worldwide. Its whimsical charm and memorable characters have made it a timeless favourite, leading to adaptations and a lasting legacy that continues to inspire new generations.
The First Gruffalo 50p: A Collector’s Dream
To mark the 20th anniversary of this beloved tale, The Royal Mint released a commemorative 50p coin in February 2019, featuring none other than the Gruffalo himself. The design, created by Magic Light Pictures, perfectly captured the mischievous smirk and distinctive features of the Gruffalo, bringing the character to life in a new and exciting way.
The release of this coin sparked unprecedented excitement across the UK. Collectors, both young and old, eagerly sought to add the Gruffalo 50p to their collections. In fact, the demand was so high that more than 239,000 Brilliant Uncirculated 50ps were sold, and all 25,000 Silver Proof Gruffalo coins were snapped up in record time. It became the fastest selling Silver 50p in history with a coin selling every two seconds!
The Gruffalo and Mouse 50p: The Story Continues
Building on the success of the first coin, The Royal Mint issued a second Gruffalo 50p in October 2019. This time, the design featured the Gruffalo alongside the cunning little mouse, capturing a key moment from the story. The contrast between the imposing Gruffalo and the small but brave mouse was beautifully depicted, making this coin another must-have for collectors.
Anticipation for this release had been building ever since The Royal Mint teased a second Gruffalo coin earlier in the year. Speculation abounded about which character might be featured, with fans eagerly debating the possibilities. When the design was finally unveiled, it was met with overwhelming approval, and, like its predecessor, it quickly sold out, leaving many collectors clamouring for more.
The Gruffalo’s Child 50p: A New Chapter
Now, as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Gruffalo’s Child, another classic in the series, The Royal Mint has once again delighted fans with a new 50p coin. This tale of the Gruffalo’s curious child venturing into the woods has become a beloved story in its own right, creating memories for a new generation of readers.
The 2024 UK 50p coin dedicated to The Gruffalo’s Child features faithfully remastered artwork by The Royal Mint’s Emma Noble. Available in Brilliant Uncirculated Colour and Silver Proof Colour, this coin is a perfect keepsake for fans of the Gruffalo series.
This brand-new 50p coin celebrates the enchanting legacy of The Gruffalo’s Child. With its engaging packaging and official Gruffalo artwork, this release is sure to become a treasured item for collectors and fans alike.
Don’t Miss Out!
Given the popularity of the previous Gruffalo coins, this latest release is sure to be highly sought after. If history is any guide, these coins won’t be around for long. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this enchanting story—make sure to secure your Gruffalo’s Child 50p coin before it’s too late!
The Evolution of UK Banknotes: From Paper to Precision
The history of banknotes in the United Kingdom is a fascinating journey of innovation, security, and tradition. From the earliest issues to the forthcoming King Charles III banknotes, each phase reflects the technological and cultural shifts of its time.
A Brief History of UK Banknotes
The Bank of England began issuing banknotes shortly after its establishment in 1694. Initially, these notes were handwritten, a far cry from the highly sophisticated currency we use today. By the mid-18th century, partially printed notes were introduced, with the denomination and other details filled in by hand.
Source: Bank of England website
https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum/online-collections/blog/our-earliest-bank-of-england-note
The 19th century brought significant changes with fully printed notes and the introduction of standardized designs to prevent forgery. A pivotal moment in the history of UK banknotes came in 1960 when Queen Elizabeth II became the first monarch to be featured on the Bank of England notes. Her portrait on the £1 note marked the beginning of a tradition of depicting reigning monarchs on the nation’s currency, providing a sense of continuity and national identity.
Security Features: From Simplicity to Sophistication
As technology advanced, so did the sophistication of banknote security features. Early notes relied heavily on the quality of the paper and intricate designs to deter counterfeiters. However, as counterfeiting techniques improved, so too did the security measures.
Modern UK banknotes are a marvel of technology and design. Click on the dots below to explore the key security features:
Introducing the King Charles III Banknotes
In a historic move, the Bank of England is set to release the new King Charles III banknotes on June 5th, 2024. This marks the first time in over 70 years that a new monarch’s portrait will grace the currency, following the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
The King Charles III banknotes will continue to feature the same high-security features of their predecessors and the new banknotes will initially be available in £5, £10, £20, and £50 denominations. They will circulate alongside the existing Queen Elizabeth II notes, gradually phasing out the older series as they wear out.
Introducing the DateStamp™ Set: Connecting the Past and Present
To commemorate this historic transition, we are excited to introduce an exclusive DateStamp™ set that brings together the past and the present of UK currency. This unique collection features the Queen Elizabeth II £5 and £10 banknotes alongside the brand new King Charles III £5 and £10 banknotes, each postmarked on the official issue date, 5th June, 2024.
You can now be one of just 2,024 collectors to own this special set.
Click here now to pre-order yours before the official release >>
One Year On: Five Facts About King Charles III’s Coronation Procession
One year has passed since the grandeur of King Charles III’s Coronation Procession swept through the streets of London, a momentous occasion that united the nation in celebration.
And as we reflect on King Charles III’s first year as King, let’s journey back to the splendour and spectacle of that unforgettable day.
Here are five facts about the impressive Coronation Procession:
It was the largest Ceremonial Military Operation in 70 years
The largest operation of its kind since Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Procession in 1953, two meticulously planned Processions accompanied King Charles III and Queen Camilla on the 1.42-mile route to and from Westminster Abbey.
Image Credit: Katie Chan, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Over 4,000 Servicemen and Women Took Part
Over 4,000 Armed Forces Personnel from at least 35 Commonwealth nations marched alongside Their Majesties during the Procession, this included representatives from The British Army, The Royal Air Force, The Royal Navy, The Royal Marines, The Household Division and The Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Image Credit: Katie Chan, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
A Coronation First Took Place at Buckingham Palace
For the first time, the Procession formed up in the gardens of Buckingham Palace to give a Royal Salute and three cheers to the new King and Queen. King Charles III and Queen Camilla stepped out onto the West Terrace of the Palace to receive the salute.
The Coronation Flypast Had To Be Altered Again
The famous Buckingham Palace Balcony Appearance was due to be accompanied by a spectacular six-minute flypast including more than 60 aircraft, but the plans were scaled back due to the poor weather forecast. This also happened in 1953 as Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Flypast also had to be altered on the day due to poor weather conditions.
Image Credit: Ministry of Defence, OGL 3 via Wikimedia Commons
The Gold State Coach isn’t as comfortable as it may look
Their Royal Majesties travelled to the Abbey in Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee State Coach and once crowned, returned to Buckingham Palace in the ornate Gold State Coach.
Queen Elizabeth II, who used the coach for her Coronation, said that the Coach might look luxurious but it was an uncomfortable ride due to the lack of suspension!
Image Credit: Amanda Slater, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Other members of The Royal Family followed in the Australian State Coach, the Irish State Coach and the Scottish State Coach. Princess Anne rode behind the Golden State Coach on horseback as with His Majesty’s Guards.
The Ultimate Tribute To King Charles III’s Coronation Procession
Today you can own the ultimate tribute to our nation’s FIRST Coronation in OVER 70 years – The King Charles III Coronation Silver 50p Coin Bar for JUST £9.99 (+p&p) when you trial the King’s Coronation Procession Collection.
This is an extra special specification. Each coin in the collection has been carefully struck from 99.9% Pure Silver to a pristine Proof finish and despite being struck to a rectangular shape – it still carries a fifty pence denomination!
Continue collecting and you’ll build an enviable collection of stunning Silver 50ps featuring scenes taken straight from the Coronation Day!
And what’s more, each coin has been fully approved by His Majesty King Charles III himself!
Click here to secure yours for our introductory price of JUST £9.99 (+p&p) >>