We at Prenoa really love learning about the history of coins and sharing those facts with you. Did you ever, as a child, own one of those wooden rulers with all the Kings and Queens printed on the back with the years that they reigned? I recently picked a few up from Burghley House, which is about half a mile away from where we live and funnily enough, one of the locations for the Netflix dramatisation of The Crown, where the Great Hall and various other parts of the house enacted Windsor Castle. Anyway, I was delighted to see King Charles III printed at the bottom too!
When I was 11, I went on a school residential to Lincoln Castle and Cathedral, and picked up a ruler of this kind. Little did I know, that monarchy would play such a big role in my future career.
Whilst monarchy means different things to different people and its place in society is subjective, our monarch still appears on coins and I am glad. It is something that dates back thousands of years and whilst change is healthy and good, this is one main-stay I would like to see remain.
Britain's monarchy has long been a symbol of tradition, continuity, and change. Since 1700, the British throne has witnessed moments of triumph, turbulence, and transformation. This blog post takes you through the fascinating reigns of the kings and queens who have shaped the nation.
So here is a quick run through of the monarchs you will likely see on our coins, which date back to the 1700's.
You can also find various links to individual coin history in the product description texts throughout our website. We share the history of farthings, sixpences, shillings and a host of international coins. We feel this information builds an even deeper connection between you and your coin and will hopefully then inspire more people to fall in love with them.
When searching for your forever coin, the dates below may explain why designs vary (designs usually changed with each new monarch or anniversary of their reign) and put a name and personality to the portrait on the coin. Enjoy!
The 18th Century: Stability and Expansion
Queen Anne (1702–1714)
The last Stuart monarch, Anne presided over the unification of England and Scotland in 1707, forming Great Britain. Her reign was marked by the War of the Spanish Succession and a growing parliamentary influence.
King George I (1714–1727)
With the death of Queen Anne and no surviving heirs, the throne passed to George I, the first Hanoverian king. As a German-speaking monarch with limited English, he relied heavily on ministers, leading to the rise of the modern prime ministerial system.
King George II (1727–1760)
George II was the last British monarch to lead troops in battle (at the Battle of Dettingen in 1743). His reign saw Britain's growing colonial power, including victory in the Seven Years' War.
King George III (1760–1820)
One of the most well-known monarchs, George III faced the loss of the American colonies and struggled with periods of mental illness. However, he also presided over the early Industrial Revolution and Britain’s wars against Napoleonic France.
The 19th Century: Empire and Industrialisation
King George IV (1820–1830)
A flamboyant and extravagant ruler, George IV was known for his patronage of the arts and architecture, including the Royal Pavilion in Brighton. His reign was overshadowed by his lavish spending and strained relationships.
King William IV (1830–1837)
Often called the ‘Sailor King’ due to his naval career, William IV was a more modest and reform-minded monarch. His reign saw the passage of the Reform Act 1832, which expanded voting rights.
Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
One of Britain's most famous monarchs, Victoria oversaw a vast empire and an era of social, economic, and technological progress. The Victorian era was marked by industrialisation, the expansion of democracy, and Britain's peak global influence.
The 20th Century: War and Modernisation
King Edward VII (1901–1910)
Victoria’s son brought a new, more relaxed style to the monarchy. His reign saw the strengthening of Britain’s global alliances and the rise of modern diplomacy.
King George V (1910–1936)
George V led Britain through World War I and made the crucial decision to change the royal family’s name from the German-sounding House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha to the House of Windsor in 1917.
King Edward VIII (1936)
Edward VIII's reign lasted less than a year, as he famously abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée. His decision led to a constitutional crisis.
King George VI (1936–1952)
George VI, the reluctant king, steadied the monarchy during World War II. His leadership and broadcasts reassured the nation, and he worked closely with Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
Queen Elizabeth II (1952–2022)
Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Elizabeth II modernised the monarchy while upholding its traditions. Her reign saw significant societal change, decolonisation, and the digital revolution, making her a beloved and respected figure worldwide.
The 21st Century: A New Era
King Charles III (2022–Present)
Following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, Charles III ascended to the throne. As a long-time advocate for environmentalism and social causes, his reign marks a new chapter in British history.
The Legacy of Britain's Monarchs
From Queen Anne to King Charles III, Britain’s kings and queens have played crucial roles in shaping the country. Their reigns reflect the evolution of governance, society, and culture, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the modern world.
In my life time, Queen Elizabeth II did so much to support the international links between countries and populations. Her incredible work to strengthen and champion the Commonwealth over her 70 years on the throne is to me, an admirable legacy. Her ability to set a high moral example to embracing people of all faiths and her acceptance of all belief systems, made her a great example of leader of the Church of England.
Today, King Charles III continues to inspire me to reflect on my love for nature, and the conviction I have to protect, love and speak kindly to each creature from the smallest ant to the great white kites who circle over Stamford. They are have their crucial part in our eco system and without them, the world is not complete. The coins that reflect his love of wildlife gave me a huge sense of joy; a lot of symbolic creatures from coins past were a beautiful nod to the past, whilst focusing on our need to act now, to protect and nurture our delicate wild system, whilst providing for ourselves as well.
With the introduction of Earth Shot and other initiatives by the now Prince of Wales, particularly the work on rainforest preservation and seaweed cultivation and carbon trapping, I feel so hopeful that our monarchy plays a vital role in the protection of the environment, education and inspiring people to come together for causes that are close to their hearts- it has come a long way from the early monarchs, placing service and connection before ruling and authority. Long Live the King!