The coin design depicts the charismatic showman mid-performance, accompanied by his signature. Details on the coin tell the story of Mercury’s extraordinary talent through carefully crafted design elements, the Royal Mint said.
Rock icon Freddie Mercury is being celebrated with a new Royal Mint coin design, which the Queen singer’s sister said would have “meant the world” to him. The coin showcases the magnetic performer in full swing, complete with his autograph.
According to the Royal Mint, the intricate details on the coin narrate the tale of Mercury’s exceptional talent. His impressive four-octave vocal range is symbolised by a musical stave encircling the coin’s edge, extending from bass to treble notes.
A studded armband edge design pays homage to Mercury’s iconic Live Aid performance attire. Some coins even boast colour, breathing life into the singer’s yellow jacket as part of the coin design and encapsulating his dynamic energy.
This coin launch coincides with the 40th anniversary of both the historic Live Aid concert and Mercury’s solo studio album, Mr Bad Guy, both milestones from 1985. Available for purchase from the Royal Mint website from 9am on Tuesday November 18, the coin has received approval from Mercury Songs Limited.
Kashmira Bulsara, Mercury’s sister, had the honour of minting the first coin at the Royal Mint. She shared her heartfelt sentiments: “Striking the first coin at the Royal Mint was such an emotional and proud moment for me.”
She added, “Freddie would have been absolutely delighted to see himself honoured in this way and to know that his family was part of bringing this tribute to life.
“He always had such respect for British traditions and institutions, and to have the Royal Mint celebrate his legacy with such beautiful artistry would have meant the world to him. The coin perfectly captures his passion and the joy he brought to millions through his music.”
Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, said: “Having Kashmira visit us to strike the first Freddie Mercury coin was incredibly moving and made this project even more special.
“Freddie Mercury wasn’t just a musician; he was a force of nature who transformed every stage he stepped onto. This coin captures that electric energy and celebrates a truly global icon whose influence continues to inspire generations.
“The level of detail in this design, from his signature to the musical stave representing his incredible vocal range, makes this one of our most special commemorative pieces.”
Mercury, who remains beloved by countless admirers for classics including A Kind of Magic, We Will Rock You, I Want to Break Free, We Are the Champions, Don’t Stop Me Now and Bohemian Rhapsody, passed away in 1991.
The Freddie Mercury collectible coin maintains the Royal Mint’s custom of honouring individuals who have made an enduring mark on the global stage.
Additional performers featured in the Mint’s “music legends” coin collection encompass David Bowie, George Michael, Dame Shirley Bassey and Sir Paul McCartney. The Royal Mint will also present a gold proof version of the coin to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, an Aids charity established in Freddie’s honour.
The charity plans to auction off this special piece in the near future, furthering Mercury’s legacy of supporting those impacted by HIV and Aids. The Freddie Mercury coins are priced from £18.50 for a brilliant uncirculated £5 denomination version, and £29.50 for a brilliant uncirculated £5 denomination colour coin.
The collection also boasts a 2oz gold proof coin in a £200 denomination, with a hefty price tag of £9,350. A 1oz silver proof £2 denomination colour coin can be yours for £144.50.
Alongside the Royal Mint website, a selection of these coins will also be up for grabs at the Freddie Mercury store.
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