Five Pounds 2023 King Charles III 75th Birthday, Coin from United Kingdom - detailed information

At the time of decimalisation in 1971, the United Kingdom Crown coin (equal to 5 shillings) was redenominated as a 25p coin and pieces struck prior to 1990 - all the way back to 1818 - continue to be legal tender for that amount. The old denomination had been a regular circulating coin in the 19th century, but in the 20th century it became more of a commemorative denomination.

The Royal Mint continued issuing commemorative coins in the same format - using the traditional coin dimensions, but in copper-nickel. These were initially also denominated as 25 pence but the "Crown" was changed in 1990 to a commemorative £5 (five pound) coin, having the same dimensions and weight but with a face value twenty times as great.

The denomination is used to mark special occasions, usually royal in theme, rather than for use in general circulation. Although not circulating, these coins are legal tender.

The Mint says about this coin:
Just six months after his coronation, His Majesty King Charles III will celebrate his 75th birthday on 14 November 2023. In honour of this landmark anniversary, The Royal Mint has produced a beautifully designed coin that pays tribute to His Majesty’s dearest passions and interests.

Prior to his accession to the throne, King Charles III was the United Kingdom’s longest-serving heir apparent in history. During that time, His Majesty campaigned tirelessly for many years to raise awareness of environmental issues, whilst the charity he founded in 1976, The Prince’s Trust, strives to create better opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. As an ardent advocate for sustainability and creating a better world for future generations, these matters are undoubtedly close to The King’s heart and fittingly serve as the basis of the 75th birthday £5 design.