A Royal Partnership: 25 Years Since William and Catherine First Met
In 2026, a meaningful milestone is reached for HRH The Prince and Princess of Wales as they mark 25 years since their first meeting in 2001.
What began as a friendship between two university students has grown into one of the most significant partnerships in modern royal history. Over the past quarter century, Prince William and Catherine have evolved from students at the University of St Andrews into central figures within the British Royal Family, embodying duty, stability and a modern vision for the monarchy.
Their journey together reflects not only personal commitment, but also a shared dedication to service, family and public life.
From St Andrews to the World Stage
Their story began at the historic University of St Andrews in Scotland, where both enrolled in 2001. Studying together and sharing student life in the small coastal town allowed their relationship to develop away from the intense spotlight that accompanies royal life.
In the years that followed, their partnership grew steadily stronger. The couple announced their engagement in November 2010, and on 29 April 2011 they were married at Westminster Abbey in a ceremony watched by millions around the world. The occasion was both a moment of national celebration and the beginning of a new chapter for the Royal Family.
In June 2005, both graduated from St Andrews. Prince William earned a 2:1 degree in Geography, while Catherine graduated with a 2:1 in History of Art.
Following university, they maintained a largely private relationship while William began military training and Catherine pursued professional roles in fashion and retail. Their relationship became increasingly visible to the public, drawing growing interest from across the world.
Engagement Announcement
After nearly a decade together, the couple announced their engagement on 16 November 2010. Prince William proposed during a private holiday in Kenya, presenting Catherine with the sapphire and diamond engagement ring that had once belonged to his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. The announcement was greeted with enormous public interest and marked the beginning of a new chapter for the British Royal Family.
The Royal Wedding – 29 April 2011
Their wedding at Westminster Abbey in London became one of the most watched events in modern history. An estimated two billion people worldwide followed the ceremony as Catherine Middleton became Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge. The wedding symbolised renewal and optimism for the monarchy, with crowds lining the streets of London and millions celebrating across the United Kingdom and beyond.
The Prince and Princess of Wales
Following the accession of King Charles III in September 2022, Prince William was created Prince of Wales, with Catherine becoming Princess of Wales. The titles carry deep historical significance and underline their roles as the future king and queen. Since then, the couple have continued to expand their charitable work and public responsibilities, representing the monarchy both in the United Kingdom and internationally.
A Modern Royal Family
Today, the Prince and Princess of Wales are proud parents to three children: Prince George of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales and Prince Louis of Wales. Together they represent a modern royal family that balances public responsibility with a clear focus on family life. Their approach has resonated widely, helping to maintain a strong connection between the monarchy and the public.
A New Sovereign to Mark a Royal Milestone
To commemorate this historic anniversary, a new gold sovereign has been introduced celebrating 25 years since William and Catherine first met.
Artist Jody Clark’s portraits appear on both sides of each coin, creating a family dynamic sure to appeal to collectors. Jody Clark is established as one of the greatest coin portrait designers alive today. It was his portrait of Queen Elizabeth II that appeared on the last British coins of her reign. Now, his side-by-side profile portraits of the Prince and Princess of Wales appear on the 2026 William & Catherine 25th Anniversary Gold Sovereign coins.
Importantly though, he is also responsible for the portrait of His Majesty King Charles III on the obverse side of each of these coins. For those who admire tradition and support the continuity of the monarchy, these coins portray a monarch and those who will succeed him. For those who appreciate the idea of a family link, these coins depict a father, his son and daughter-in-law. Having all three portraits by the same designer, who is one of the most skilled and highly respected proponents of this art form in recent times, will surely add to the pressure of demand on what is incredibly small availability.
Authorised by Tristan Da Cunha and approved by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Buckingham Palace, it is a wonderful way to mark a milestone anniversary for HRH The Prince and Princess of Wales.
Service and Responsibility
Throughout their marriage, William and Catherine have taken on an increasing number of royal duties. Their work spans a wide range of causes including mental health awareness, early childhood development, environmental protection and support for members of the Armed Forces.
Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, William became heir to the throne and was created Prince of Wales by King Charles III. With these new responsibilities, the couple now occupy a central role in shaping the future direction of the monarchy.
Looking Ahead
Twenty-five years after their first meeting, the Prince and Princess of Wales remain widely admired for their dedication, sense of duty and enduring partnership. Their journey from university students to the future King and Queen Consort reflects both continuity and change within the Royal Family. As they continue their work in service of the nation and the Commonwealth, their story remains one of partnership, commitment and shared purpose.
The anniversary of their first meeting offers a moment to reflect not only on their personal journey, but also on the evolving role they will play in the years ahead as the monarchy moves confidently into its next chapter.
