COLLECTORS crashed the Royal Mint website yesterday in a rush to get their hands on the first King Charles III coins.
Some waited more than three hours for new 50p and £5 pieces bearing the monarch’s face only to be thrown out at the online checkout.
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More than 50,000 people were in the virtual queue by 12pm – with 18,000 already joined at the 9am release.
One Twitter user joked: “Jeez where’s Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby when you need them!”
Eager numismatists feared it may make them miss the collection commemorating the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Royal Mint told Twitter followers: “We really apologise for any inconvenience in accessing our website, this is due to the popularity of the collection.”
A spokesman told The Sun: “Our teams are working hard behind the scenes to ensure customers have a positive experience with The Royal Mint and we thank customers for their patience during this incredibly busy time.”
Customers were urged to try again later as both Brilliant Uncirculated silver and gold proof coins have an unlimited mintage until December 31.
The 50p version of King Charles III’s first official coin portrait, designed by Martin Jennings, will enter circulation “in the coming months”.
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