The Royal Mint has unveiled a special range of commemorative coins to mark the 50th anniversary of Iron Maiden. The heavy metal band is joining other acts in the Royal Mint’s ‘music legends’ coin series, which has also featured Queen, Sir Elton John, and David Bowie.
Crafted by Iron Maiden’s go-to artist Albert ‘Akirant’ Quirantes, the new coins feature the group’s emblematic mascot, Eddie, striking a dynamic pose. For fans with a keen eye, the coins’ packaging and design include ‘hidden’ elements that pay homage to the band’s music and tours.
With a discography spanning 17 studio albums, Iron Maiden has cultivated a dedicated global following over the decades. Amidst this, Rod Smallwood, Iron Maiden’s manager, said: “Having Eddie on an official UK coin is a continuation of his incredible odyssey since we unearthed him back in 1980.
“We’ve been on stamps, beer bottles, plane tails and now legal tender. The detail Akirant has managed to pack into the design is superb – there are little nods to virtually every chapter of our journey as a band. We’re truly honoured that the Royal Mint has chosen to commemorate 50 years of Iron Maiden in such a unique way.”
(Image: Royal Mint/PA)
Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, also added: “Iron Maiden have been fearless pioneers in music, flying the flag for Britain around the globe for half a century. Their creative vision, powerful performances and dedicated following have earned them a place as one of Britain’s most influential bands.
“This coin is the perfect fusion of metal on metal and we expect it will prove to be a collector’s piece that’s highly sought after by both numismatists and passionate rock fans alike.”
The coins, available in various gold, silver, and brilliant uncirculated editions, will go on sale at the Royal Mint starting at 9 am today. The Iron Maiden coin prices begin at £18.50 for a brilliant uncirculated £5 denomination coin and £29.50 for a colour version.
This collection also includes a £200 denomination Iron Maiden gold coin, available for £6,940. Ahead of their launch, the coin’s artist, Mr Quirantes, said: “Designing the Iron Maiden coin has been one of the most thrilling projects of my career.
(Image: Royal Mint/PA)
“As a lifelong fan of the band, and Derek Riggs’s original creations in the 80s, I wanted to capture not just their iconic imagery, but also the rebellious spirit that has defined their music for decades.
“I’ve hidden several references within the design that true fans will enjoy discovering, including subtle nods to classic album artwork and their most beloved songs.
“It’s my tribute to a band that has influenced generations of music lovers all over the world, and I hope fans will spend time exploring every detail just as passionately as they’ve analysed the band’s lyrics over the years.”
For more information, head to the Royal Mint’s website.
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