Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The one ounce (1 oz) silver coins are denominated as either two pounds (£2) or five pounds (£5), depending on the occasion.
Initially, these were only of the Britannia type, but in 2015 the Royal Mint started to use the format for coins with other types of reverse designs, celebrating various aspects of British heritage.
The coins are legal tender but are not intended for circulation. They are targeted at bullion investors or collectors who appreciate the special editions as pieces of art.
This commemorative one-ounce silver coin celebrating British artist George Michael is part of the eighth release in the Music Legends coin series by the Royal Mint.
The mint says: George Michael went from a teen heartthrob as part of the pop group WHAM! to one of the bestselling solo musicians of all time, selling more than 125 million records. His passing in 2016 devastated millions of his devoted fans around the world. This coins is a tribute in recognition of his remarkable talent as one of the world’s most popular and beloved musicians.
Inspired by George Michael’s iconic music video for "Faith", the design is available in a range of editions that includes a colour-printed Brilliant Uncirculated edition. |