Jane Austen 200th anniversary: New tenner released today in memory of author

Today (18 July) marks 200 years since the Pride and Prejudice author's death

(Bank of England)

The new £10 note featuring an image of author Jane Austen is due to be unveiled late today (18 July) to mark the 200th anniversary of her death.

The launch, taking place at Winchester Cathedral by the Bank of England, will be the first time the public can see the polymer note ahead of its official release in September.

Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility and Emma author Austen died in Winchester on 18 July 1817.

Winchester Cathedral said that the new tenner “will recognise her universal appeal and enduring contribution to English literature.”

The banknote will replace the current paper tenner - emblazoned with an image of Charles Darwin - that has been in circulation since 2000. It is said to be smaller than the paper £10 note but is larger than the polymer £5 note.

This isn't the only currency that will mark the anniversary of Austen - a limited edition £2 coin is being released also, but circulated in location across Hampshire.

Austen's silhouette will appear on the rare Royal Mint coin overlaid by her signature.

It was designed by Dominique Evans, who said: “From the first brief, through to the final design, it was a delight to research Jane Austen’s life in detail.

“I imagined her framed silhouette as if it were in one of the houses featured in Jane Austen’s books, on the wall of a corridor as guests passed by to attend a dance, perhaps in Pride and Prejudice, or on the wall in the home of Emma.”

Uncirculated editions are said to also be available to buy from the Mint directly.