10 Pounds
The Bank of England released the 10 Pounds polymer banknote dated 2023, introducing King Charles III's portrait in the continuation of the established Jane Austen design. This note measures 132 mm x 69 mm and features King Charles III on the obverse, with the 2023 design copyright date reflecting production updates. Like the 5 Pounds note, banknotes with King Charles III's portrait officially began circulation on June 5, 2024, operating in parallel with existing Queen Elizabeth II designs.
The reverse displays Jane Austen, the renowned English novelist celebrated for her wit and social commentary, alongside illustrations from her most famous work. The design includes a quotation from Pride and Prejudice and imagery evoking the Regency era depicted in her novels. Jane Austen has appeared on the 10 Pounds note since 2017, replacing Charles Darwin. Security features include a distinctive book-shaped copper foil patch containing the letters JA, color-shifting text that alternates between Ten and Pounds when tilted, and a coloured quill that changes from purple to orange when tilted.
Jane Austen (1775-1817) is one of England's most beloved literary figures, whose six major novels — including Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Emma — continue to attract global readership and cultural adaptations. Her placement on the 10 Pounds note was chosen through public consultation and reflects her enduring significance to English language and culture. Two clusters of raised dots in the top left corner provide accessibility for blind and partially sighted users.
