Large numbers on an entirely redesigned set of UK coins will help children to identify figures and learn to count, The Royal Mint has said.
The coins will enter circulation by the end of the year, marking the new reign of King Charles III and celebrating his love of the natural world.
The tails side of every coin from the 1p to the £2 will feature the country’s flora and fauna.
Old coins can still be used, with the new set struck in response to demand.
Rebecca Morgan, director at the Mint: “The large numbers will be very appealing to children who are learning to count and about the use of money.
“Also the animals and everything you see on these coins will appeal to children. They are great conversation starters.”
Animals ranging from the red squirrel to the capercaillie grouse are depicted on the new designs. The King’s now-familiar portrait will be on the front of each coin – many for the first time.
Although cash use – and especially the popularity of coins – has been in decline in recent years, the Mint says heritage and need mean this change is still required.
“We know a large proportion of the country are still heavily reliant on cash,” Ms Morgan said.
“It is also tradition to mark the moment of a monarch coming to the throne with a new set of coinage, so it is important that we carry on that tradition.”