Elton John is sure having his time in the spotlight lately. First there was the biopic, Rocketman, then his memoir, Me, and now he has a collection of coins being released by The Royal Mint in the U.K. that’s befitting of a Queen.He is the first solo artist to have his own dedicated coin, which is being produced in collaboration with Universal Music Group’s Bravado division.

Pop music has been one of the United Kingdom’s most successful exports in recent decades, influencing people and cultures all over the world. In 2020 The Royal Mint is celebrating some of the country’s most important artists – individuals and bands who have helped shape our love of music. No such collection would make sense without the inclusion of Elton John, the superstar who has been delighting fans for more than half a century.

Born Reginald Dwight, Elton John displayed remarkable musical talent at a very young age. This underlying musicality and a passion for rock ‘n’ roll drove him to breakthrough from pubs and blues bands to become a global sensation. He has made more than 4,000 performances in over 80 countries and sold in excess of 300 million records worldwide. Elton John is without doubt a British music legend.

The coin design honouring this music legend was created by Bradley Morgan Johnson. With any number of famous looks from which to draw inspiration, Johnson chose to depict the performer by way of musical notes, wearing his famous music-note glasses and straw boater’s hat, topped with a hat and bow-tie on a Union Jack background. This commemorative coin is a great way for fans and admirers to pay tribute to this incredible artist. The commemorative collection features Elton throughout his 50-year-plus career.

“It really is a fabulous honor to be recognized in this way,” comments John in a statement. “The last few years have contained some of the most memorable moments of my career, and this is another truly humbling milestone on my journey.”

The cheapest coins have a face value of £5 ($6.20) and sell for £13 ($16.20) while the most costly, a one-kilo gold proof coin, carries a whopping price tag of £64,950 ($81,200). Also, a special one-off coin will be auctioned later this year to raise cash for the Elton John Charitable Trust. A Queen coin.was released earlier this year as well.

The Elton John collection can be ordered here.

Die-hard Elton John fans may want to check out his newly launched YouTube channel, Elton John: Classic Concert Series, featuring some of his most greatest shows from the past, also raising funds for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.