By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
The Royal Mint has partnered with Iron Maiden for licensed commemorative coins that celebrate the heavy metal band’s 50th anniversary.
The licensed coins were created for The Royal Mint’s Music Legends series by contemporary artist and Iron Maiden fan, Albert Akirant Quirantes.
“Designing the Iron Maiden coin has been one of the most thrilling projects of my career,” said Quirantes. “As a lifelong fan of the band, and Derek Riggs’ 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,” added Quirantes. “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.”
Featuring art of the band’s Eddie mascot, the licensed coin design also includes numerous references, details and Easter Eggs from the band’s career, albums and world tours.
The members of Iron Maiden worked closely with the artist and The Royal Mint’s production team throughout the design process.
“Having Eddie on an official UK coin is a continuation of his incredible odyssey since we unearthed him back in 1980,” said Iron Maiden’s manager, Rod Smallwood. “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,” added Smallwood. “We’re truly honoured that The Royal Mint has chosen to commemorate 50 years of Iron Maiden in such a unique way.”
Marking the first official collectable product to bear the band’s 50th Anniversary logo, the Iron Maiden coins are offered in several editions and price points.
These editions range from Royal Mint’s standard brilliant uncirculated coins to limited-edition precious metal proof versions.
“Iron Maiden have been fearless pioneers in music, flying the flag for Britain around the globe for half a century,” said The Royal Mint director, Rebecca Morgan. “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.”
Since their formation in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden’s heavy metal music has gained a substantial global fanbase.
The new commemorative coin joins The Royal Mint’s previous launches for its Music Legends collection, which has previously celebrated artists such as Queen, Elton John and more.
Photo Source: The Royal Mint/PRNewswire