King Charles III Receives First UK Banknotes Featuring His Face

London: Britain’s King Charles III was presented with the inaugural series of banknotes featuring his portrait by representatives from the Bank of England at Buckingham Palace in London. The 75-year-old monarch, who is undergoing cancer treatment, was captured alongside Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey and Chief Cashier and Executive Director of Banking Sarah John on the momentous occasion.

This marks the first instance of the Bank of England altering the portrayal of a British monarch on a banknote, succeeding Queen Elizabeth II, whose image graced Bank of England notes since 1960. The palace confirmed that King Charles III received denominations of GBP 5, 10, 20, and 50 notes, which will officially enter circulation on June 5, 2024.

Despite the introduction of the new banknotes, those featuring Queen Elizabeth II will remain legal tender and will co-circulate alongside King Charles III notes. The Bank of England announced a gradual introduction of the new notes, primarily printing them to replace worn-out ones and to meet increased demand.

Under the updated design unveiled last year, King Charles III’s portrait will feature prominently on the front of the banknotes, while his cameo will appear in the see-through security window. The reverse side of the notes will remain unchanged.

The photographed and filmed meeting at the palace signifies a positive turn in the King’s health following his cancer diagnosis in February. While he had previously reduced his public engagements, recent reports suggest plans for a gradual return to a more active schedule, indicating progress in his treatment.