Elton John Recognized With His Own Official Coin

Jul 06, 2020 by apost team

Elton John is a bonafide music legend, and now he's been honored with his own UK coin, as part of The Royal Mint's "Music Legends" series. The coin will come in a range of gold and silver editions of varying value and features distinct references to The Rocket Man himself, which fans will be able to purchase.

The second in The Royal Mint's "Music Legends" series—Queen was the first British musical act to receive a commemorative coin—Elton John's coin is as distinctive as the musician himself. Designed by artist Bradley Morgan Johnson, the design includes Elton's trademark straw boater hat, a music note that resembles round glasses—not unlike the bold designs the artist wears himself—a bow tie, and a Union Jack backdrop. Available in gold proof, silver proof, and brilliant uncirculated editions, the commemorative coins will be up for sale for any eager fans.

In a press release, as reported by Pitchfork, Elton John stated: "It really is a fabulous honour [sic] to be recognised [sic] in this way. 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."

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Clare Maclennan, the Divisional Director of Commemorative Coin and the Royal Mint Experience discussed the coin in a press release, once again reported by Pitchfork. She stated:

"Elton John is without a doubt a British music legend and is recognised [sic] as one of the most successful singer-songwriters of his generation. We are delighted to honour [sic] Elton's significant contribution to British music on a UK coin. This is the second coin in the Royal Mint's new Music Legends series, marking the work of our exceptional British musicians."

The BBC reports the prices of the coins, with the lowest starting at £5 face value and selling for £13, while the highest is a one-kilo gold proof coin that has a face value of £1,000 and is selling for £68,865. Additionally, a one-off coin will be auctioned off to raise funds for the Elton John Charitable Trust. 

It's a big milestone in an already incredible career. The last two years have been especially eventful for the musician, as he published his autobiography in 2019, while a biopic movie about him titled Rocketman was released starring actor Taron Egerton as Elton. The film did well on the awards circuit, with Elton winning an Oscar for Best Original Song, as well as a Golden Globe, while Taron Egerton won for his performance at the Golden Globes.

Elton had embarked on his final world tour, aptly titled Farewell Yellow Brick Road, but it is currently on pause. His career has spanned over 50 years and his music has touched many lives, so it's wonderful to see him celebrated in such a historic way.

What do you think of Elton John's commemorative UK coins? What is your favorite song of his? Let us know in the comments, then be sure to pass this on to any Elton John fans in your life!