Introduction
The British pound, also known as the pound sterling, is the official currency of the United Kingdom. The pound is symbolized by £ and is widely used in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In this article, we will explore the different denominations of the British pound.
I. £1 Note and £1 Coin
The smallest denomination of the British pound is £1. Historically, there used to be a £1 note in circulation; however, since 1983, it has been replaced by a £1 coin. The £1 coin is round with a gold color outer ring and a silver color center. On the front of the coin, you can find a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the reverse side features different designs representing each of the four countries in the United Kingdom.
II. £5 Note
The next denomination is the £5 note. It is typically blue and has a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the front. The reverse side showcases an image of Sir Winston Churchill, one of the most prominent political figures in British history.
III. £10 Note
The £10 note is larger than the £5 note and is usually made of a polymer material. It features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the front and an image of author Jane Austen on the reverse side. This note was introduced in 2017, replacing the previous paper £10 note featuring Charles Darwin.
IV. £20 Note
The £20 note is the highest denomination currently in circulation in the United Kingdom. It is predominantly purple in color and highlights a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the front. On the reverse side, you will find a depiction of artist J.M.W. Turner, who is widely regarded as one of Britain's greatest painters.
V. Other Denominations and Coins
Aside from the aforementioned denominations, there are also £50 notes, although they are less common in circulation. Moreover, there are various coins with different values, including 1 penny, 2 pence, 5 pence, 10 pence, 20 pence, 50 pence, and £2. Each coin has its own unique design and represents a different value within the British currency system.
Conclusion
The British pound consists of several denominations, ranging from £1 to £50. The different denominations facilitate a wide range of transactions, from small purchases to larger expenses. Knowing the various types of British pound denominations is useful for both residents and visitors of the United Kingdom, as it allows for a better understanding of the local currency.