Freddie Mercury honoured with new UK coin in Music Legends Series

The Royal Mint has unveiled a brand-new coin celebrating Freddie Mercury, marking the first time the legendary Queen frontman has been the sole subject of a British numismatic tribute.

Part of the Mint’s ongoing Music Legends series, the 2025-dated coin pays tribute to Mercury’s extraordinary legacy as one of Britain’s most charismatic performers. Its release coincides with two major milestones:

  • 40 years since Queen’s iconic Live Aid performance (July 1985)
  • 40 years since Mercury’s debut solo album, Mr. Bad Guy

🎤 Coin Design Details

  • Reverse design: Mercury mid-performance, alongside his signature.
  • Symbolic elements:
    • A musical stave encircling the coin, representing his four-octave vocal range.
    • Edge motif inspired by the studded armband worn at Live Aid.
  • Special editions: Select versions feature colour, highlighting Mercury’s famous yellow jacket from Queen’s 1986 tour.

💰 Formats for Collectors

The coin range is available in multiple metals, denominations, and weights:

  • Gold Proof editions
  • Silver Proof editions
  • Brilliant Uncirculated cupronickel pieces

Options span from affordable base-metal editions to premium precious-metal strikes designed for serious collectors.

👩‍👦 Family & Legacy

Freddie’s sister, Kashmira Bulsara, struck the very first coin at the Mint, calling the moment “emotional and meaningful” for her family.

Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coins at the Royal Mint, said Bulsara’s presence “made this project even more special,” noting that the design aimed to capture Mercury’s electric energy and enduring global influence.

The coin was created in collaboration with Mercury Songs Ltd.

🌍 Giving Back

Continuing Mercury’s philanthropic spirit, the Royal Mint donated a special gold Proof coin to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, the HIV/AIDS charity founded in his memory. The coin will be auctioned to support the Trust’s work worldwide.

🎵 Music Legends Series

Freddie Mercury joins an elite lineup of British icons already honoured in the Music Legends series, including:

  • David Bowie
  • George Michael
  • Shirley Bassey
  • Paul McCartney

🛒 How to Get Yours

The Freddie Mercury coin collection became available Nov. 18, 2025 through:

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