King Charles Presented With The First Banknotes Featuring His Image — See The Pics!
King Charles' face lit up with a smile as he examined a fresh series of banknotes featuring his image.
At Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, the 75-year-old king hosted a special event where he was presented with the inaugural batch of banknotes showcasing his portrait by Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey and Chief Cashier Sarah John. Despite his ongoing cancer treatment leading to a reduction in public engagements, the sovereign exuded cheerfulness during the intimate gathering. In response to the new £5, £10, £20, and £50 bills adorned with his likeness, King Charles III called the designs "very elegant," according to the BBC.
RELATED: LOOK: Queen Camilla Hilariously Slices Cake Using Large 'Polished Sword'
The intricate engravings, drawing inspiration from a 2013 photograph of the monarch, garnered his praise for their elegance and finesse.
Per tradition, the British monarch is customarily presented with the inaugural releases of a fresh currency. Set to debut on June 5, the new polymer banknotes will maintain the legacy of the late Queen Elizabeth, with existing bills continuing circulation. The Bank of England clarified that these updated banknotes will be introduced primarily to replace worn-out bills or meet the demand for increased currency supply.
"Our approach is in line with guidance from the Royal Household, to minimize the environmental and financial impact of this change," as outlined in a statement by the national bank. The decision aligns seamlessly with King Charles' enduring commitment to sustainability and conservation, reflecting his lifelong dedication to these crucial causes.
During the meeting, the Bank of England Governor informed the King that this new currency symbolized a significant moment in history, as it marked the first instance of swapping sovereigns on the currency.
Notably, Queen Elizabeth was the inaugural sovereign to be featured on all Bank of England bills. However, unlike the currency associated with his late mother during her unprecedented 70-year reign, King Charles' portrayal on the banknotes does not include a crown, the BBC noted.
