article_snippet: This is the 12-sided £1 coin that will replace the version that’s been in circulation for more than 30 years in 2017.
article_snippet: The current £1 coin has been in circulation since 1983 - much longer than the normal life cycle of a modern British coin.
article_snippet: In a nod to Britain’s heritage, it is the same shape as the 12-sided threepenny or thrupenny bit, which was in circulation from 1937 until decimalisation in 1971 and was in the first group of coins ever to feature the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
article_snippet: The threepenny bit was the first British coin to use a 12-sided shape, which was popular during the Second World War since its distinctive size and shape made its the easiest coin to recognise during the blackout.
article_snippet: The current £1 coin has been in circulation since 1983.
article_snippet: Pictured, annealed coins at the Royal Mint .
article_snippet: ’ Adam Lawrence, chief executive of The Royal Mint
article_snippet: said: ‘The Royal Mint are delighted to have the opportunity to support Her Majesty’s Treasury in modernising the iconic £1 coin and helping to re-define the world of coinage. '
article_snippet: As an organisation we have been established for over 1,000 years, but we are constantly looking to the future, so it’s fantastic to see the work of a talented young artist like David Pearce being replicated on a coin, that will be used by millions of people in Britain and recognised world-wide for years to come.
highlights_snippet: Current £1 has been in circulation since 1983 - longer than average coin .
  