New coins featuring the portrait of King Charles have been revealed, with a 50p carrying his image entering general circulation within weeks. The coins follow centuries of tradition with the monarch now facing left – the opposite way to his predecessor.

As with previous British kings, and unlike the Queen, he wears no crown.

King Charles personally approved the effigy, and was understood to be pleased with the likeness.

The coins will be sold to collectors by The Royal Mint from early next week. The 50p coin will be available for general use well before the end of the year, distributed according to demand by banks, building societies and post offices.

They will co-circulate with coins featuring the late Queen, so those 27 billion coins will still be accepted in shops.