The Royal Mint has officially launched a stunning new commemorative coin celebrating the legendary Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury. The special edition collectable was personally inaugurated by the singer's sister, Kashmira Bulsara, who visited the mint to strike the very first piece.
A Proud and Emotional Tribute
Kashmira Bulsara described the experience as an 'emotional and proud moment' for her and the entire family. She stated that her brother would have been 'absolutely delighted' to see himself honoured in this way by a British institution. '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,' she added, noting the coin perfectly captures his passion.
Design Details That Sing
The intricate coin design captures the charismatic showman in a classic mid-performance pose, complete with his famous signature. The Royal Mint explained that every detail tells a story of Mercury's extraordinary talent. A key feature is a musical stave running around the coin's edge, symbolising his impressive four-octave vocal range from bass to treble.
Further paying homage to his iconic Live Aid performance in 1985, the coin's edge also features a studded armband design inspired by his outfit from that day. For an extra burst of his vibrant energy, some versions of the coin are produced in colour, brilliantly recreating the singer's famous yellow jacket.
Timing, Availability, and Charity
The release is timed to coincide with two significant 40th anniversaries: the legendary Live Aid concert and the release of Mercury's solo album, 'Mr Bad Guy', both from 1985. Officially approved by Mercury Songs Limited, the coins went on sale from the Royal Mint website at 9am on Tuesday, November 18.
The collection includes various options for collectors. Prices start at £18.50 for a brilliant uncirculated £5 denomination version, with the colour version priced at £29.50. A premium 2oz gold proof coin is available for £9,350.
In a charitable gesture, The Royal Mint will gift a gold proof version of the coin to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, the AIDS charity founded in his memory. The trust will auction the piece in the coming months to continue supporting those affected by HIV and AIDS.
Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at the Royal Mint, said: 'Freddie Mercury wasn’t just a musician; he was a force of nature... This coin captures that electric energy and celebrates a truly global icon.' The Freddie Mercury coin now joins other legends in the mint's music series, including David Bowie and Sir Paul McCartney.
