Daniel Thomas, King’s Assay Master at The Royal Mint

Daniel Thomas has worked at the Royal Mint for over ten years, doing lots of different jobs to help make coins. Now he has a very special role called the King's Assay Master - a job that has existed for hundreds of years!

As the King's Assay Master, Dan makes sure that every coin made at the Royal Mint is perfect. He tests the coins to check they are the right weight and made from the right metals. This is really important because people need to trust that their coins are genuine and good quality.

Dan's job connects the past with the present. He uses modern technology alongside traditional craftsmanship that coin makers have used for centuries. Once Dan and his team at The Royal Mint have tested the coins, they go through one of the oldest quality checks in the world, called the Trial of the Pyx, where experts make absolutely sure the coins meet the highest standards.

Dan is so excited to be a judge for this year's Short Story Competition and can't wait to read all the amazing stories!