George Michael’s Iconic Image Immortalized on New Collectible Coin from Britain’s Royal Mint
Fans of the late British singer-songwriter George Michael can now cherish his memory in a unique way with the release of a collectible coin issued by Britain’s Royal Mint. The coin, which features an image of Michael in his signature slicked-back hairstyle, leather jacket, cross earring, and aviator sunglasses, pays tribute to the second solo hit single that catapulted him to international fame: “Faith.”
The sale of the limited-edition coins began at 9 a.m. local time on Monday, and visitors to the Royal Mint’s Website had to wait in a virtual queue to secure their purchase. The coin is part of the Royal Mint’s Music Legends series, which has previously honored fellow British music icons David Bowie, Elton John, and Queen.
Design Inspired by George Michael’s Iconic Hit “Faith”
The design of the coin, officially approved by the late singer’s estate, was created by Italian artist and sculptor Sandra Deiana. The headshot is set against an engraving of the refrain from “Faith,” according to the Royal Mint’s statement. In her media release, Deiana shared that she aimed for a detailed portrait that captured Michael’s charismatic expression and iconic sunglasses.
Several Finishes and Weights Available
The coin is available in various finishes and weights, ranging from £15.50 ($20) to £2,770 ($3,500). In his illustrious career spanning four decades, Michael sold more than 100 million albums and produced hit singles like “Careless Whisper,” “Faith,” and “Jesus to a Child.”
A Career Marked by Success and Philanthropy
Michael, a singer-songwriter, producer, and philanthropist, first rose to fame in the early 1980s as one half of Wham! alongside bandmate Andrew Ridgeley. The duo split in 1986, and Michael’s first solo hit was a duet with Aretha Franklin called “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” in 1987. The release of the coins comes just two months after Wham!’s “Last Christmas” reached number one in the UK charts for the first time, 39 years after its initial release.
An Emotional Tribute from George Michael Entertainment
“On behalf of George Michael, we are deeply honored that the Royal Mint is paying tribute to him by creating a series of beautifully crafted coins. He would have been enormously proud and genuinely touched that a national institution should have decided to pay tribute to his memory in this way,” said a statement from George Michael Entertainment included in the media release.
Celebrating an Iconic Music Career
With this new collectible coin, fans can commemorate Michael’s iconic music career and keep his memory alive. The coin is not just a testament to his musical legacy but also a cherished piece of art that tells the story of one of Britain’s greatest music legends.
