December 12, 2023 –As you embark on your holiday shopping this season, keep an eye out for a historic change in your pocket change. The Royal Canadian Mint has revealed the first-ever Canadian circulation coin featuring the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III which will start in circulation sometime in December.
For the past seven decades, Queen Elizabeth II graced our coins, but the 2023-dated $1 coin takes us into a new royal era. Canadian artist Steven Rosati’s contemporary portrait of King Charles III was unveiled by Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, in a ceremony at the Mint’s manufacturing facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Since its establishment in 1908, the Mint has showcased the reigning monarch’s portrait on Canadian coins. With the effigy of King Charles III, the Mint continues this longstanding tradition. “Many of our employees worked as one to meet the historic challenge, and we are pleased to be ready for production on the day of His Majesty’s birthday,” said Marie Lemay.
Meet the Artist Behind the New Face
Steven Rosati, a Montreal-based artist, is only the third Canadian to design a royal effigy for Canada’s coinage since 1990. Prevailing over a strong field of finalists, Rosati expressed his honor and gratitude, stating, “I am also very grateful to be among the many talented artists who have done designs for the Royal Canadian Mint.”
A Glimpse into the Design Process
Following the government’s May 6 announcement, the Mint invited designers to submit concepts for a “made-in-Canada” portrait of King Charles III. After evaluating numerous submissions, Steven Rosati’s design emerged victorious. After the proper government and Buckingham Palace approvals, the Mint then began the engraving and tooling process where dies were created to strike the coins.
The unveiling of the design occurred on November 14, 2023 and moments later, Marie Lemay struck the very first Canadian circulation coin to feature the new obverse. The Mint plans to circulate a small volume of coins in all denominations by December, meeting market demand through public exchanges and the national coin management system.
About His Majesty King Charles III
Upon the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales acceded to the Throne and became His Majesty King Charles III. A life of duty and service prepared him for this moment. Born on November 14, 1948, King Charles III is the longest-serving heir apparent, with a keen interest in public life and numerous visits to Canada.
FAQs – Your Questions Answered
- Why is The King going on our coins?
The Government of Canada decided on the new effigy to uphold a historic tradition. - When will I find a new circulation coin in my change?
Some coins will start circulating in 2023, with more to follow as banks and businesses adjust their inventories. - Who designed the new effigy?
Canadian artist Steven Rosati designed the new effigy. - When will the new effigy be on bullion and numismatic coins?
Bullion coins will feature the new effigy in 2024, and specific numismatic coins will follow in early 2024. - Why does the King’s portrait face left?
The left-facing portrait aligns with the tradition of depicting the new monarch in the opposite direction of their predecessor. - Do Queen coins need to be replaced?
No, all coins in circulation, regardless of the monarch, remain legal tender. Expect to see “Queen” coins for many more years.
As you navigate the holiday shopping rush, keep an eye out for the new royal face on your coins. It’s a small but significant change, marking the beginning of a new era in Canadian coinage. Long live the King!
