George Orwell to be honoured with new £2 coin by UK’s Royal Mint

George Orwell is about to take his place in British numismatic history. To mark the 75th anniversary of the famously anti-authoritarian writer’s death, the Royal Mint is commemorating his life and work with a new £2 (€2.38) coin.

The reverse of the coin features a striking design inspired by “Nineteen Eighty-Four”. At the centre is an image of a camera lens with the appearance of an eye, symbolising the famous surveillance of Big Brother, with the infamous slogan, “Big Brother is watching you,” encircling it. The coin’s edge inscription reads: “There was truth and there was untruth,” a nod to Orwell’s reflections on the manipulation of reality.

“The works of George Orwell have influenced generations, and his most famous works are still being studied today – decades on from their first publication,” Rebecca Morgan, the Royal Mint’s Director of Commemorative Coin, commented, “I am delighted to share this unique design with collectors and fans of Orwell’s work, paying tribute to one of the most world-renowned authors of the 20th century.”

Orwell’s work, particularly his nonfiction, was shaped by his real-life experiences, including his time living in poverty and serving as a volunteer during the Spanish Civil War. His insights into power, class, and society still resonate, which is why he remains a relevant and prominent figure in both literature and politics.

Although the UK – along with many other countries – is seeing a decline in the use of cash, the £2 coin is especially popular with collectors. The bi-colour coin has featured more than 50 reverse designs since its launch in 1998, including tributes to literary icons like William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and J.R.R. Tolkien.

For those looking to get their hands on this new collectible, the George Orwell £2 coin will be available in Brilliant Uncirculated, Gold Proof, and Silver Proof editions on 15 January via the Royal Mint website. If you happen to find yourself near Llantrisant, South Wales, you can even strike your own coin at The Royal Mint Experience from 20 January for an extra £7.50 (€8.91).