King Charles III Debuts on New $20 Banknote

The Bank of Canada has unveiled a new $20 banknote featuring King Charles III, marking the first time his portrait appears on a Canadian banknote. This change comes over seven decades since Queen Elizabeth II's portrait was last updated in 1935.

The vertical design, only the second used by the Bank of Canada after the Viola Desmond note, features King Charles' portrait surrounded by floral and leafy patterns inspired by his environmental interests. The reverse side depicts the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France, commemorating the country's military history.

Governor Tiff Macklem noted that 'the new $20 bank note is striking, symbolic and secure,' highlighting its advanced security features combined with images reflecting Canada's beauty and history. The new note will enter circulation from late February 2027.