Maundy Money 2025: King Charles III Continues British Easter Tradition

The custom provides that the reigning monarch distributes gifts on Maundy Thursday to citizens who have distinguished themselves through outstanding charitable and voluntary service. For centuries, it has been traditional for this honour to take the form of specially minted coins.

For the year 2025, the Maundy coins were once again minted in a quantity corresponding to the monarch’s age. As King Charles III turns 76 in 2025, 76 ladies and 76 gentlemen each received a set of the coins. The coins themselves follow a design that has remained almost unchanged since 1670 and are officially recognised as legal tender. In practice, however, they are cherished by recipients as precious keepsakes.

Each issue of the Maundy Money consists of silver coins with denominations of one penny, two pence, three pence, and four pence, with the total value matching the monarch’s age. The minting is regarded as one of the most traditional numismatic representations of British history and culture.

The distribution of Maundy coins is not only a firmly established part of British state culture but also an expression of social appreciation for voluntary service. Ahead of the ceremony, King Charles III also released an Easter message reflecting on humanity’s capacity for both great kindness and cruelty. He emphasised the enduring importance of faith, hope, and love – virtues which he considers indispensable even today.