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It
depicts a side profile of Lennon, taken on the roof of his
penthouse in New York. Lennon was shot dead by Mark David
Chapman in the city on Dec. 8, 1980 at the age of 40.
Lennon’s name appears to the left of the portrait, while the
word “Imagine” features on the right side of the design in a
reference to his single and album, released in 1971, the year
after the Fab Four — Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and
Ringo Starr — effectively went their own way, having left their
indelible mark at the heart of the 1960s.
“Arguably one of the greatest singers and songwriters of all
time, Lennon’s achievements as an artist, activist and advocate
for peace continue to live on and will now be forever remembered
on a coin," said Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin
at the Royal Mint.
The Royal Mint, which has struck the coins of monarchs from
Alfred the Great in the ninth century through to King Charles
III, has an ongoing “music legends” coin series, celebrating
singers and songwriters. Lennon follows the likes of McCartney,
David Bowie, Queen, the Rolling Stones and Shirley Bassey in
being honored on a Royal Mint coin.
Lennon fans and coin collectors will be able to buy the coins
from the Royal Mint’s website from Monday. They will be
available in a range of precious metals, including gold, as well
as different colors.
Prices will start at 18.50 pounds ($24) for a five-pound
denominated coin up to 6,420 pounds ($8,330) for a 200-pound
denominated coin.
Though legal tender, but with the price differential, it’s
unlikely — if not irrational — for anyone to use the coin to
buy, say, “The White Album.”
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