Royal Mint issues new coins to honour Sir Paul McCartney

The coinage series marks the first time in the 82-year-old’s life that he has been commemorated in such a way.

The Beatles icon, who is well-known for working on hit songs like Penny Lane and Can’t Buy Me Love, said: “This feels like a huge honour.

“It’s not anything I would have ever expected to happen when I was a kid.”

Sir Paul McCartney honoured with new coin series amid world tour

The design of the coin features Sir Paul McCartney’s “magic piano” as well as references to his record-breaking career – including piano notes personally chosen by Paul, a Hofner violin bass guitar and the Wings logo.

Inspired by the legend’s use of pennies as guitar picks in the early days of his career, the Royal Mint said it gifted the singer-songwriter a plectrum version of the coin ahead of the European leg of his world tour.

Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, said: “Our coins recognise the greatest icons and events in British history, so it’s fitting that Paul McCartney’s remarkable music career is now celebrated on an official UK coin.

“What makes this coin extra special is that Paul has been involved throughout the design process. The coin celebrates elements from throughout his solo career, and we hope fans will enjoy the layered references to songs, instruments and bands.”

Sir Paul McCartney is currently on a world tour (Image: The Royal Mint/PA Wire)

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Early next year, the Royal Mint will put a signed, gold version of Sir Paul McCartney’s coin up for auction.

The gold coin took more than 250 hours to make, including three days of hand polishing.

It was signed by Sir Paul and will be auctioned alongside four silver coins.

The Paul McCartney collectable coin is available as limited-edition precious metal proof finishes, brilliant uncirculated and colour versions.

The coins can be purchased from the Royal Mint’s website, with prices starting from £15.50.