George Orwell Commemorated with New £2 Coin Release

In a notable tribute to one of the most profound writers of the 20th century, the Royal Mint has unveiled a new £2 coin designed to commemorate the legacy of George Orwell, author of landmark literary works such as Nineteen Eighty-Four and

. Released to mark the 75th anniversary of Orwell's death, this coin is more than just currency—it encapsulates the enduring themes of surveillance, truth, and societal control that permeate his writings.

The design of the coin, crafted by coinage artist Henry Gray, features an eye that is, in reality, a camera lens, symbolizing the theme of totalitarian oversight central to Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four. Surrounding the lens is the chilling phrase, “Big Brother is watching you”, echoing the pervasive surveillance concept that Orwell masterfully explored.

Gray emphasized that the eye is intentionally designed to be “monocular” rather than realistic, aiming to reflect a sense of constant scrutiny akin to being watched through a lens. This artistic choice aligns with modern-day discussions on privacy in the digital age, where we often feel that our activities are under surveillance.

Orwell's work, particularly Nineteen Eighty-Four, continues to resonate strongly in today's world. While the book paints a dystopian picture of a future governed by an oppressive regime, it also perfectly captures the anxieties surrounding state surveillance, data privacy, and propaganda—issues that have become increasingly relevant in our contemporary society.

Rebecca Morgan, director of the commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, noted, “The works of George Orwell have influenced generations, and his most famous works are still being studied today—decades on from their first publication”. This recognition serves as a reminder of Orwell's profound impact on literature and societal awareness.

The £2 coin is available in several formats, including brilliant uncirculated, gold proof, and silver proof versions, starting from £17.50. Notably, collectors of British coinage recognize the £2 coin as one of the most sought-after denominations, celebrating notable figures across literature and history. Since its introduction in 1998, over 50 designs have honored various literary giants, such as William Shakespeare and Jane Austen.

The Royal Mint has also provided a unique opportunity for visitors to the Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant, South Wales. Starting from January 20, attendees can strike their own George Orwell £2 collectible coin, further cementing the personal connection between fans and the literary legacy of Orwell.

Orwell's legacy is not solely confined to his books. The terms “Orwellian” and “Big Brother” have entered the vernacular to describe regimes that distort the truth and erode personal freedoms. These phrases highlight his acute observations of power dynamics and societal structures, making his work as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.

As we reflect on Orwell's contributions through this commemorative coin, it is evident that his insights into the human condition, authority, and society remain crucial. His ability to articulate the struggles of truth in a world of misinformation echoes in every generation, reminding us of the ongoing fight for personal privacy and social justice.

The new coin honoring George Orwell encourages us to engage with his works and the critical discussions they inspire. As collectors and fans alike celebrate this unique design, we are reminded of the importance of safeguarding our rights to privacy and truth in an age where both are continuously challenged. George Orwell's voice, encapsulated in this fine piece of currency, inspires us to reflect not only on the past but also on our present and future responsibilities as citizens.