Posts Tagged ‘coin collector’
George Orwell: A Literary Icon Honored with a Special £2 Coin
Seventy-five years after the death of George Orwell, one of the most influential authors of the 20th century, and now a brand new £2 coin has been released to celebrate his life and legacy. Known for his groundbreaking works 1984 and Animal Farm, Orwell’s writing remains as relevant today as ever. This special coin is not only a tribute to his visionary thinking but also a unique addition to any collector’s portfolio.
This special coin has already generated significant interest in the media, with many praising its clever design and relevance in today’s world.
A Coin That Celebrates Orwell’s Masterpiece
The reverse, or tails, side of the coin is a nod to 1984, Orwell’s dystopian novel that continues to captivate readers decades after its publication. The novel tells the story of Winston Smith, a man living under totalitarian rule and constant surveillance. The coin’s design, by renowned artist Henry Gray, cleverly incorporates the themes of 1984.
At its centre, what appears to be an eye is actually a camera lens, symbolising the pervasive surveillance in Orwell’s fictional world. Surrounding the lens is the chilling phrase, “Big Brother is watching you.” Adding further depth, the coin’s edge inscription features another thought-provoking quote: “There was truth and there was untruth.”
A Tribute to Literary Greats
The George Orwell £2 coin is part of The Royal Mint’s proud tradition of honouring literary giants. Previous coins have celebrated figures like William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and J.R.R. Tolkien. Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at The Royal Mint, shared her excitement about this release:
“The works of George Orwell have influenced generations, and his most famous works are still being studied today – decades on from their first publication. I am delighted to share this unique design with collectors and fans of Orwell’s work, paying tribute to one of the most world-renowned authors of the 20th century.”
Why This Coin Matters Today
In our modern world, where surveillance technology and debates over privacy dominate the news, Orwell’s warnings feel more relevant than ever. Terms like “Orwellian” and “Big Brother” have become part of our everyday language, highlighting the ongoing significance of his ideas.
This coin captures those themes perfectly, serving as both a tribute to Orwell and a reminder of the importance of protecting truth and freedom.
Collectible Editions
The George Orwell £2 coin is available in several editions to suit all collectors:
- Brilliant Uncirculated (£9.99+p&p): 2025 UK George Orwell CERTIFIED BU £2
- Brilliant Uncirculated (£17.50 +p&p): A perfect starting point for new collectors.
- Silver Proof (£89 +p&p): A high-quality finish that highlights the intricate details of Henry Gray’s design.
- Silver Piedfort (£145 +p&p):TWICE AS LMITED: The Official UK George Orwell Silver Piedfort £2
Secure Yours Today
Don’t miss your chance to own this extraordinary tribute to George Orwell. Celebrate his life, his work, and his enduring impact on society with this beautifully crafted £2 coin.
Discover the 2025 Annual Sets
As we welcome 2025, there’s no better way to mark the occasion than with The official brand new 2025 Annual Sets — a stunning collection of coins celebrating the people, places, and events that have shaped British history. Each coin captures a defining moment, bringing history to life in a way that feels more meaningful than ever at this time of year.
Available on 2nd January 2025
Here’s a closer look at the stories behind these commemorative coins:
Marking the Birth of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother
Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother is celebrated for her steadfast resilience and unwavering support during some of the most challenging times in British history, including the Second World War. As a pillar of strength to her husband, George VI, and her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, her influence spanned over a century. The £5 coin dedicated to her features a reverse design with a portrait that previously graced the coin celebrating her 80th birthday in 1980—a timeless tribute to her enduring legacy.
200 Years of the Modern Railway
On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 revolutionised travel by transporting hundreds of passengers between Shildon, Darlington, and Stockton. This historic journey not only marked the dawn of the railway age but also transformed industries and cultures worldwide. The £2 coin commemorating this milestone captures the essence of that pivotal moment with a reverse design depicting Locomotion No. 1, paired with the edge inscription, “ACTIVE · LOCOMOTION NO 1.” This coin serves as a tribute to two centuries of innovation and progress in rail travel.
350 Years of The Royal Observatory, Greenwich
Founded in 1675 by Charles II, the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, has been a beacon of scientific progress, defining global navigation and timekeeping. The £2 coin commemorates its 350th anniversary with a reverse design that integrates the Shepherd Gate Clock, the constellation Ursa Minor, Polaris, and the iconic meridian line against a globe backdrop. Its edge inscription, “PERFECTING THE ART OF NAVIGATION,” underscores the Observatory’s enduring legacy.
Celebrating the Red Arrows
Since their inception in 1964, the Red Arrows have dazzled millions with their breath-taking aerobatic displays. Representing the precision and agility of the Royal Air Force, the team has performed nearly 5,000 displays across 57 countries. The 50p coin celebrating the Red Arrows features the sleek Hawk T1 aircraft, a tribute to the team’s inspiring legacy and their continued excellence in aviation.
Remembering the Stories of the Second World War
The Second World War was a defining chapter in British history, with contributions from soldiers, factory workers, and citizens alike. The 50p coin honours this collective effort with a reverse design showcasing the 1939–45 Star, Defence Medal, and War Medal—symbols of the bravery and resilience demonstrated during the war. Each medal tells a story of personal sacrifice and national unity that shaped the Britain we know today.
The Obverse: His Majesty King Charles III
Every coin in the 2025 Annual Sets bears the official coinage portrait of His Majesty King Charles III. Designed by Martin Jennings in 2022, this is the first definitive coinage portrait of
His Majesty The King to appear on coins, symbolising the continuity of the monarchy and the evolving story of the United Kingdom.
A Testament to British History and Craftsmanship
Each coin is meticulously crafted, embodying The Royal Mint’s dedication to excellence and storytelling. These sets not only celebrate the past but also inspire future generations to cherish and learn from Britain’s rich cultural heritage.
Available on 2nd January 2025
As stated by the Royal Mint
2025 Silver Flagship Coins of the World
The world of coin collecting is about to shine brighter than ever with the release of the 2025 Silver Flagship Coins of the World Collection. These iconic 1oz Silver Bullion coins represent the pinnacle of global minting excellence and offer collectors an exclusive opportunity to secure six of the most significant and sought-after coins of the year.
A Celebration of Silver Excellence
For centuries, silver coins have captured the imagination of collectors and investors alike. This new 2025 limited-edition set of six flagship coins, each represents the craftsmanship and heritage of the world’s leading mints.
From the historic South African Krugerrand to the charming Chinese Panda, this collection unites diverse designs and cultural icons, creating a truly global tribute to silver bullion.
The 2025 Collection: Coin by Coin
1. Britain’s Britannia
The Britannia stands as a symbol of British resilience and artistry. For 2025, it features the elegant depiction of Britannia on the reverse and the official portrait of King Charles III on the obverse, making it a must-have for collectors commemorating this new royal era.
2. FIRST King Charles III Canadian Maple Leaf
The Canadian Maple Leaf is renowned for its stunning design and intricate detailing. With the introduction of King Charles III’s portrait on the obverse for the first time, this coin gains historical significance, blending Canada’s strong ties to the British monarchy with its unique national identity.
3. FIRST King Charles III Australian Kangaroo
Australia’s beloved Kangaroo coin continues to leap forward in popularity. The 2025 edition features King Charles III on the obverse, marking its debut in this new era of numismatics. Its distinct design pays homage to Australia’s iconic wildlife.
4. American Eagle
Often referred to as the most popular silver coin in the world, the American Eagle stands as the United States’ flagship bullion coin. The 2025 edition continues its legacy with the classic design that has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide.
5. Chinese Panda
The Chinese Panda is celebrated for its ever-changing designs, making each year’s release unique. In 2025, the Panda continues to capture the charm and spirited nature of China’s national treasure, offering collectors a truly distinctive addition to their collection.
6. South African Krugerrand
Introduced in silver in 2017, the Krugerrand has become an icon of South African numismatics. The 2025 edition maintains its reputation as a collector’s favorite, blending timeless design with global appeal.
Why Collectors Love the Silver Flagship Coins
Each coin in this collection tells a story of cultural pride and minting mastery. Together, they create a snapshot of the global numismatic landscape for 2025. With only a limited number of sets available, the 2025 Silver Flagship Coins of the World Collection offers an exclusive chance to own a piece of history.