Who Was John Lennon?
John Lennon (1940–1980) was an English musician, songwriter, and peace activist, best known as a founding member of The Beatles, one of the most influential and successful bands in music history. Born in Liverpool, England, Lennon formed The Beatles in 1960 alongside Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. As a co-lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and primary songwriter with McCartney, Lennon contributed to countless classics like Help!, Strawberry Fields Forever, and Come Together.
After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon embarked on a successful solo career, producing acclaimed albums such as Plastic Ono Band (1970) and Imagine (1971). The song Imagine remains his most famous solo work celebrated worldwide as an anthem for peace and unity.
Lennon was also known for his outspoken political views and activism, particularly during the Vietnam War era. With his wife, Yoko Ono, he staged high-profile peace protests, including 'Bed-Ins for Peace' in 1969.
Tragically, Lennon's life was cut short when he was shot and killed by Mark David Chapman outside his New York City home on 8 December 1980. Despite his untimely death, John Lennon's legacy endures through his timeless music, message of peace, and profound influence on popular culture.
The Music Legends Collection
John Lennon is the latest British artist to feature in The Royal Mint's sell-out Music Legends series.
Launched in 2020, The Royal Mint's Music Legends collection celebrates some of the most iconic UK musical acts whose influence has shaped the global music scene. The series features beautifully crafted coins paying tribute to legendary bands and artists, combining innovative design with British cultural heritage. Key releases in the sold-out series include:
- Queen (2020): The first in the series, showcasing instruments from all four band members—Freddie Mercury's grand piano, Brian May's Red Special guitar, John Deacon's Fender bass, and Roger Taylor's drum set.
- Elton John (2020): A colorful, vibrant coin featuring Sir Elton John's signature straw boater hat, glasses, and a musical note bow tie.
- David Bowie (2020): Features Bowie's iconic lightning bolt from Aladdin Sane against a cosmic backdrop, symbolising his boundary-pushing creativity.
- The Who (2021): Incorporates the band's Union Jack motif, a guitar with a smashing effect, and mod-style graphics reflecting their rebellious energy.
- Rolling Stones (2022): Celebrates the rock legends with their name in the classic font and a silhouette of a concert crowd.
Music Legends coins are available in brilliant uncirculated, silver proof and gold proof editions, making them popular among coin collectors, investors and fans of the bands and artists featured in the series.
2025 John Lennon UK Coins
The Royal Mint honoured John Lennon with a coin in its Music Legends series in 2025, marking what would have been the iconic musician's 85th birthday and the 50th anniversary of his final studio album.
The reverse of these coins showcases a detailed portrait of John Lennon, inspired by Bob Gruen's renowned 1974 photograph taken atop Lennon's New York City penthouse. This image captures Lennon's signature style, complete with his round glasses and casual attire. The design also incorporates the word 'IMAGINE', paying homage to his legendary 1971 song that became the best-selling single of his solo career. 1oz, 10oz, and some £5 BUnc coins feature colour-printed detail.
This is the second time that a member of The Beatles has featured on a Music Legends coin, following 2024's Paul McCartney collection.
The obverse of all coins in the 2025 John Lennon collection shows Martin Jennings' portrait of King Charles III, with an inscription that includes the date and the denomination.
Speaking about John Lennon Music Legends coins ahead of their release, Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at the Royal Mint, remarked:
'Arguably one of the greatest singers and songwriters of all time, Lennon's achievements as an artist, activist, and advocate for peace continue to live on and will now be forever remembered on a coin.'
This release not only commemorates John Lennon's profound impact on music and culture but also offers fans and collectors a tangible piece of his enduring legacy.
