Obverse. Photo © Royal Mint
  • 5 Pounds 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Music Legends, John Lennon
  • 5 Pounds 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Music Legends, John Lennon
  • 5 Pounds 2025, United Kingdom (Great Britain), Charles III, Music Legends, John Lennon, Fold-out packaging
Description

John Lennon's collectable coin is the tenth in The Royal Mint's "Music Legends" series, which celebrates legendary British artists through original new designs. This latest coin follows designs in honor of music icons Queen, Elton John, David Bowie, The Who, The Rolling Stones, Shirley Bassey, The Police, George Michael and Paul McCartney. Dated 2025, this coin marks what would have been Lennon’s 85th birthday and the 50th anniversary of his final solo album.

John Lennon (1940–1980) was an English musician, singer, and songwriter best known as the co-founder of The Beatles, one of the most influential bands in history. As the group’s primary creative force alongside Paul McCartney, Lennon helped shape the sound of modern rock and pop music. His songwriting ranged from early Beatles hits like Help! and A Hard Day’s Night to later, more introspective works such as Strawberry Fields Forever and Imagine. His lyrics often reflected his personal experiences, political beliefs, and evolving spiritual journey. Beyond music, Lennon was an outspoken activist, using his platform to protest war, advocate for peace, and challenge authority through events like the "Bed-Ins for Peace" with his wife, Yoko Ono.

After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon pursued a solo career that further cemented his legacy. His 1971 song Imagine became an anthem for peace and unity, showcasing his idealistic vision of a world without borders or conflict. Despite a brief period of musical hiatus in the mid-1970s to focus on his family, Lennon made a comeback with Double Fantasy in 1980, shortly before his tragic assassination outside his New York City apartment by Mark David Chapman. His death shocked the world, but his influence endures through his music, activism, and cultural impact. Lennon remains a symbol of artistic expression and social change, inspiring generations of musicians and dreamers.

Obverse

Depicts King Charles III’s effigy, surrounded by the Latin inscription. Engraver's initials on the neck.

CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX FIDEI DEFENSOR means King Charles III, by the Grace of God King, Defender of the Faith.

Engraver: Martin Jennings (MJ)

•CHARLES III•D•G•REX•F•D•5 POUNDS•2025
MJ

Reverse

Depicts a side profile of John Lennon, inspired by a renowned 1974 photograph by Bob Gruen. His name is displayed to the left of the portrait, while the word “Imagine” appears on the right, honoring his most famous politically charged song.

The 1974 photograph of John Lennon by music industry photographer Bob Gruen is one of the most iconic images of the legendary musician. Taken on the rooftop of Lennon’s New York penthouse, the photo captures him in a relaxed yet confident pose, wearing a sleeveless "New York City" T-shirt and sunglasses. This image became a symbol of Lennon’s post-Beatles identity, representing his deep connection to the city and his evolution as an artist and activist. It remains one of the most recognized portraits of Lennon, encapsulating his rebellious spirit and enduring influence.

Released in 1971, Imagine is one of John Lennon’s most influential and enduring songs. With its simple yet profound lyrics, it envisions a world without borders, divisions, or materialism, promoting peace and unity. The song’s gentle piano melody and soothing vocals contrast with its powerful message, making it both a protest anthem and a universal call for harmony. Imagine remains a defining piece of Lennon’s solo career, inspiring generations with its hopeful vision and timeless appeal.

Engraver: Henry Gray

JOHN
LENNON
IMAGINE
HDG

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 28.28 g
Diameter 8.61 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

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