The Royal Mint has unveiled a new collectible £5 coin paying tribute to British music legend Paul McCartney, marking the first time the iconic musician has been featured on an official UK coin.
Released as part of the 2024 UK Coin Range, the design celebrates McCartney’s enduring legacy in the music industry, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ groundbreaking arrival in the United States.
The reverse of the coin, designed by Osborne Ross, features hallmarks of McCartney’s extraordinary career, including his famed Magic Piano, his unmistakable Höfner violin bass, the Wings logo, and his signature. Hidden references to his record-breaking achievements are also embedded in the design, adding to the coin’s collectible appeal.
According to The Royal Mint, the inspiration for this unique coin extends beyond McCartney’s music. Reflecting his early days using pennies as guitar picks, The Royal Mint has gifted McCartney a special plectrum version of the coin ahead of the European leg of his world tour. This thoughtful nod highlights the artist’s journey from humble beginnings to global superstardom.
McCartney’s contributions to music have made him a household name since the 1960s. From his role in The Beatles and Wings to his acclaimed solo career and collaborations, McCartney has amassed countless accolades, including inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a knighthood for his services to music, and membership in the Order of the Companions of Honour.
The new coin is available in several editions, including gold Proof, silver Proof, and two Brilliant Uncirculated editions. Collectors can also enjoy detailed packaging recounting McCartney’s remarkable career. This commemorative release was produced in partnership with MPL Communications Ltd.
The Royal Mint describes the coin as a tribute to “one of the United Kingdom’s finest musical artists” and an enduring symbol of Paul McCartney’s unparalleled contributions to British and global music history.