The legacy of Sir Elton John to Britain, and the world of music in general, is impossible to put a price on, but now the singer-songwriter has been commemorated with a special coin in his honour.
BBC reports that John is set to be recognised for his musical legacy on a £1,000 gold coin, to be produced at The Royal Mint at Llantrisant in South Wales.
The Royal Mint announced that he would feature on the second instalment of their new ‘Music Legend’s collection, after the first coin was minted in honour of Queen.
“It really is a fabulous honour to be recognised in this way,” said Elton John in a press release. “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 coin will feature John’s iconic glasses and boater hat, with a musical note in front of the Union Jack, paying tribute to his 50+ year career in the business. The coin was designed by artist Bradley Morgan Johnson.
“Elton John is without a doubt a British music legend and is recognised as one of the most successful singer-songwriters of his generation,” said Divisional Director of Commemorative Coin and the Royal Mint Experience, Claire Maclennan.
“We are delighted to honour 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.”
Love Pop?
Get the latest Pop news, features, updates and giveaways straight to your inbox Learn more
The commemorative coins will be available to purchase in Gold proof, Silver proof and Brilliant Uncirculated editions, and will sell for a face value of between £5 and £1,000, though the BBC suggests its real value could be closer to £70,000.
Elton John was mid-way through his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour when the coronavirus pandemic hit, and whether he’ll reschedule the rest of the mammoth world tour remains to be seen.
Earlier this month he announced a new YouTube series that will weekly feature archival concert footage.
Check out ‘Tiny Dancer’ by Elton John:
