British banknotes featuring King Charles III on Wednesday introduced into circulation in the United Kingdom after nearly two years since he assumed the throne following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The four banknotes, which display the king's portrait on the front, come in denominations of £5 ($6.4), £10, £20, and £50, and will be in use alongside those featuring Queen Elizabeth's image. Additionally, coins bearing King Charles's likeness were released into circulation in December 2022.
These updates reflect the growing trend among Britons to use both physical and online bank cards for payments, reducing reliance on cash.
"We understand the importance of cash for many individuals, and we are dedicated to supplying paper money as long as there is a demand from the public," he stated.
The recently introduced currency, produced from recycled polymer previously used to replace paper money in the UK starting in 2016, will slowly substitute the older notes.
According to a photo from the royal household released in 2013, Charles gave his approval in late 2022 for the ultimate designs of the banknotes which showcase his engraved portrait.