Published: 03.04.08

A graphic design graduate from the University of Brighton was unveiled as the winner of a competition to redesign the nation's coins.

Matthew Dent's designs were chosen through a public competition that attracted more than 4,000 entries.

The seven designs, from the 1p through to the 50p coins, can be pieced together to form a complete image of the Shield of the Royal Arms. The £1 coin features the complete shield.

It is the first redesign of coins for 40 years, and the new design will partner the Queen's head image on the reverse side. The coins are expected to enter circulation gradually from this summer.

Matthew Dent (pictured below), who now works as a graphic designer said: "For designs of mine to appear on a medium as significant and prestigious as the United Kingdom's coinage and to be produced and circulated in millions is a tremendous honour."

"I primarily want my new designs to intrigue, to entertain and to raise a smile. I love to think that they may be enjoyed as much by children at school as by folks in a pub."

Lawrence Zeegen, academic programme leader for graphic design at the University of Brighton, said: "The graphic design MDes course at the University of Brighton endeavours to provide the type of challenging and stimulating environment that allows students to embrace and extend their own particular field of study within the discipline. Matt has become that rare breed of designer, so early in his career, that has harnessed a true creative vision, both visually and conceptually, having produced a striking design for the UK's biggest client of all - the British people. Well done Matt!"

Sir Christopher Frayling, Chair of the Royal Mint Advisory Committee on the Design of Coins, Medals, Seals and Decorations said: "Every designer's dream is to make an impact on people's lives and Matthew Dent has achieved this at a very early stage of his career. These designs are certain to become classics in the history of coinage and I predict that they will have a very long shelf life."

For all press enquiries regarding the University of Brighton please contact Rebecca Haroutunian.

For all press enquiries regarding the new coins or interview requests with Matthew please call the Royal Mint press line on 020 7255 5478.