The Royal Mint has officially announced the final release of rare £1 coins bearing the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, marking a significant chapter in British numismatic history. Over 23 million coins featuring the late monarch will be released into circulation alongside 7.5 million new £1 coins showcasing King Charles III.
As these coins begin to enter daily use, collectors and the general public alike have shown renewed interest in the symbolism, rarity, and historical significance of this final batch of coins honoring Queen Elizabeth II.
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Why This Release Is Historically Significant
Queen Elizabeth II was the longest-reigning monarch in British history, and her image has adorned UK coins for more than 70 years. The 2022-dated £1 coins are not just the last to feature her portrait, but are also some of the rarest in active circulation.
With the accession of King Charles III, the transition to coins featuring the new monarch is already underway. But this final set of Queen Elizabeth II coins serves as a bridge between two reigns—and offers collectors and historians a unique piece of royal legacy.
Key Facts:
- 23 million Queen Elizabeth II £1 coins to enter circulation.
- Coins are dated 2022, the year of her passing.
- The coins are the final batch to feature her effigy.
- Released alongside 7.5 million King Charles III £1 coins.
- Produced by the Royal Mint, the official coin manufacturer for the UK.
The Design and Features of the Final Queen Elizabeth II Coins
The last batch of Queen Elizabeth II £1 coins includes familiar and symbolic imagery, retaining traditional UK coin design standards while carrying a unique historical weight.
Obverse (Front):
- Portrait: The coins feature the fifth and final effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, created by artist Jody Clark in 2015.
- Inscription: Includes the Latin phrase “ELIZABETH II D.G. REG F.D.”, meaning “Elizabeth II, by the grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith”.
Reverse (Back):
- The reverse design includes the floral emblems of the four nations of the UK – the rose, leek, thistle, and shamrock – symbolizing unity.
Edge:
- The £1 coin maintains a 12-sided shape introduced in 2017 to deter counterfeiting, along with micro-lettering and milled edges.
These features make the coin not just a legal tender but a memorable tribute to a monarch whose reign spanned decades of social, political, and cultural change.
Why These Coins Are Considered Rare
While 23 million coins may seem like a large number, in the context of UK coinage, it is relatively limited—especially for a £1 denomination. Here’s why they are classified as rare:
- Final Dated Issue (2022): These are the last coins dated with the year of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.
- End of an Era: No more coins will be produced with her image, making this the final circulating coin issue with her portrait.
- High Collector Demand: Coin collectors globally are eager to obtain this historical issue.
- Transition Period: As coins featuring King Charles III become the norm, Queen Elizabeth II coins will become increasingly scarce in daily use.
The Transition to King Charles III Coins
With the change in monarchy, the UK has begun the transition to coins featuring King Charles III. The Royal Mint has confirmed that 7.5 million £1 coins with the new king’s portrait will also enter circulation around the same time.
King Charles III Coin Features:
- Portrait by Martin Jennings: The official obverse was created by British sculptor Martin Jennings.
- Left-Facing Profile: In line with tradition, Charles faces the opposite direction to his mother, continuing the alternation in profile direction from monarch to monarch.
This concurrent release symbolizes the continuity of the monarchy and Britain’s evolving royal identity.
Collector Interest and Market Value
The release of the final Queen Elizabeth II coins has generated a surge in collector interest, both in the UK and internationally. As with other rare and final-issue coins, numismatists expect these coins to increase in value over time, especially uncirculated or proof versions.
Factors That Affect Value:
- Condition: Mint or uncirculated coins fetch higher prices.
- Limited Mintage: While 23 million is significant, it is small compared to other £1 coin batches.
- Historical Importance: Final issues always attract collectors for their symbolism.
- Popularity of the Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II’s popularity enhances interest in memorabilia bearing her image.
If you’re lucky enough to find one in your change, holding onto it could be a wise investment.
The Royal Mint’s Role and Commemoration Efforts
The Royal Mint in Llantrisant, South Wales, has been producing coins for over 1,100 years. It has played a vital role in preserving royal legacy through currency. To commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, the Mint has also issued collector’s sets, commemorative coins, and limited-edition releases.
According to Rebecca Morgan, Director of Collector Services at the Royal Mint:
“This final coin release featuring Queen Elizabeth II marks the end of a historic era. We are proud to continue her legacy through the coins that people carry with them every day.”
In addition to circulating coins, the Mint has released:
- Memorial Coin Sets
- Silver and Gold Proof Versions
- Special Presentation Packs for Collectors
These products are in high demand and frequently sell out upon release.
Public Reaction and Cultural Impact
The announcement of the final Queen Elizabeth II coins has triggered strong emotional and cultural responses from the public. Many see this as the closing of a historic chapter, while others reflect on the Queen’s unmatched role in modern UK history.
On social media, the hashtag #FinalQE2Coin began trending shortly after the news broke, with thousands sharing photos, videos, and personal reflections on Queen Elizabeth II and her presence in daily life through currency.
Quotes from the Public:
- “I’ll definitely be keeping one for my kids. A piece of history in your pocket.”
- “Feels strange knowing this will be the last time I see her on a new coin.”
- “Long live the Queen – and now, long live the King.”
Tips for Finding and Collecting These Coins
Want to get your hands on one of the final Queen Elizabeth II coins? Here are some tips:
1. Check Your Change
These coins will be entering general circulation, so keep an eye on your cash transactions, especially £1 coins.
2. Visit Banks and Post Offices
Banks and post offices may distribute newly minted coins. Ask if they’ve received the new batch.
3. Buy Direct from the Royal Mint
For uncirculated or proof versions, purchasing directly from The Royal Mint’s website ensures authenticity.
4. Join Coin Collector Forums
Online communities like CoinCommunity, Reddit’s r/coins, or UK-specific forums offer trade, sale, and identification opportunities.
5. Use Coin Identification Apps
Apps like Coinoscope or the Royal Mint’s own tools can help you verify and track your coin finds.
Frequently Asked Question
Why are the final Queen Elizabeth II coins considered rare?
These £1 coins are rare because they are the last to feature Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait and are dated 2022, the year of her passing. Only 23 million are entering circulation, a relatively low number for UK coinage, especially compared to other £1 coin issues.
When will the final Queen Elizabeth II coins enter circulation?
The Royal Mint confirmed that the coins would enter circulation in 2025, although they are dated 2022. This delay was due to the transition period following Queen Elizabeth II’s death and the preparation of new coins featuring King Charles III.
What makes these coins different from previous £1 coins?
While the shape and security features are the same as post-2017 £1 coins, the key difference is the historical significance—these are the last coins ever minted for circulation with Queen Elizabeth II’s image, making them highly collectible.
How can I find one of these rare Queen Elizabeth II £1 coins?
To find one:
- Check your change regularly.
- Visit banks or post offices for newly issued coins.
- Consider purchasing an uncirculated version from the Royal Mint or reputable coin dealers.
Will the Queen Elizabeth II coins still be legal tender?
Yes, these coins are fully legal tender in the UK. You can use them for everyday transactions, although many people may choose to keep them due to their rarity and commemorative value.
What are the Queen Elizabeth II coin design features?
- Obverse: Features the fifth and final portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark.
- Reverse: Displays the UK’s four floral emblems – rose, thistle, leek, and shamrock.
- Shape: 12-sided, bi-metallic, with anti-counterfeit features.
Are these coins worth more than £1?
While they hold a face value of £1, these coins may appreciate in value over time, especially if they are:
- Uncirculated or in mint condition
- Part of a limited edition collector’s set
- Held long-term as the last coin issue of Queen Elizabeth II
Collectors may already be offering more than face value on secondary markets like eBay or coin trading forums.
Conclusion
As the final set of Queen Elizabeth II coins enters circulation, the nation is offered one last tangible tribute to a monarch who defined modern Britain. These coins aren’t just pieces of metal—they are historical artifacts, public memorabilia, and, for many, treasured keepsakes. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual collector, this is a rare opportunity to hold a piece of history in your hand—one that bridges the reigns of two monarchs and captures the essence of a queen whose legacy will endure far beyond her time.
