The Royal Mint is releasing a whopping 23.2 million new 5p coins featuring King Charles III’s official portrait for the very first time. Minted in October 2023, these coins are hitting pockets across the UK to meet soaring demand.

Historic 5p Coins Hit Everyday Change

Collectors and the public alike will get the chance to spot these unique 5p coins in tills and pockets nationwide. Since King Charles III’s portrait debuted on UK coinage in 2022, fans have been hot on the trail of these rare finds. Still, coins bearing the King make up just 0.2% of the 24.6 billion coins currently swirling around the UK.

The new 5p coin’s reverse showcases an oak leaf design, symbolising the tree’s vital role in woodland biodiversity. The oak has long royal ties and echoes King Charles’s well-known environmental passion.

Royal Mint and Post Offices Unite for Special Release

Rebecca Morgan, Royal Mint’s commemorative coin director, said: “We are delighted to see His Majesty’s first 5p coins entering circulation following public demand. The oak leaf design beautifully represents the deep connection between our monarchy and the natural world, reflecting King Charles III’s lifelong dedication to environmental conservation.”

“These coins offer the public a wonderful opportunity to discover a piece of living history in their everyday change, and for many, finding one of these special coins could be the beginning of a fascinating journey into the world of coin collecting.”

Morgan added it’s a rare facelift for the 5p, with the last redesign way back in 2008. So the King’s coins mark the first design change for one of the UK’s smallest coins in 17 years.

The coins will be available at post offices and bank branches across the country. In a nod to the oak design, special batches are heading to post offices with “oak” in their name – like The Oaks Post Office in Dungannon and Jubilee Oak in Braintree – plus others near famous trees across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Russell Hancock, Post Office supply chain director, added: “We are incredibly proud to support the entry and circulation of this first 5p coin to bear His Majesty King Charles III’s official portrait.”

Keep Your Eyes Peeled for a Royal 5p!

These coins offer more than just pocket money – they’re a piece of history. So next time you get change, look out for a royal 5p with a proud oak leaf and a fresh portrait of King Charles III. It might just be your lucky day!