A new 50p coin is being launched which will celebrate Sussex author Raymond Brigg’s The Snowman this Christmas.

Art based on the picture book will feature on the collectible coin which will be released in time for the festive season.

The coin is the sixth to be launched in honour of the festive tale and the first to feature King Charles III.

Rebecca Morgan, director of collector services at The Royal Mint said: “The Royal Mint is delighted to celebrate the tale of The Snowman on official UK coins for its sixth year in 2023.

"Continuing our partnership with award-winning illustrator Robin Shaw, we are excited to release another original festive coin that brings Raymond Brigg’s story to life in a new way.

"This year’s edition of The Snowman coin is particularly special, being the first of our Christmas coins with King Charles III’s effigy on its obverse. We hope that people love the coin’s design and look to collect a piece of British Christmas history.”

This year’s design includes the titular snowman and young boy James holding hands against a snowy backdrop.

The artwork is based on Raymond Brigg’s ever-popular book which features a number of Sussex landmarks.

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The author lived much of his life in Sussex with the South Downs and Brighton Pavilion featured prominently in The Snowman.

He died in August 2022.

The Snowman was first published in 1978 and has sold millions of copies as well as being adapted for stage and screen.

A sequel film, The Snowman and The Snowdog, featured in a public art trail in Brighton in 2016 in aid of Martlets.

Speaking about the design, award-winning animator and illustrator Robin Shaw said: “I am thrilled to enter my sixth year working with The Royal Mint, helping to bring Raymond Briggs' classic winter’s tale to life for collectors and fans of the story alike.”

The new coin launches today and can be bought on The Royal Mint Website.