The Royal Mint unveils a £2 coin to honor George Orwell, celebrating his legacy 75 years after his passing
The coin features a cool design by artist Henry Gray. It looks like an eye, but it’s actually a camera lens in the middle. Around it, you’ll find the famous quote “Big Brother is watching you,” and on the edge, it says, “There was truth and there was untruth.”
This coin is a nod to Orwell’s dystopian world in 1984, where the main character, Winston Smith, lives under strict surveillance. Other literary legends like Shakespeare and Austen have also been featured on £2 coins, so Orwell is in good company.
Rebecca Morgan from the Royal Mint shared how Orwell’s work has shaped generations and is still relevant today. She’s excited to present this unique design to fans and collectors alike.
Orwell, whose real name was Eric Blair, was a journalist and a keen observer of social issues. His influence is still felt today, especially with terms like “Orwellian” and “Big Brother” being used to describe oppressive situations.
He worked for the Manchester Evening News during World War Two, and now you can snag this commemorative coin starting January 15, with prices kicking off at £17.50. Plus, if you’re in South Wales, you can even strike your own coin at the Royal Mint Experience starting January 20. How cool is that?
