Rare Paul McCartney coins go under the hammer

The gold coin features Sir Paul's guitar as well as hidden references to his record-breaking career. Rare gold and silver coins honouring former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney are up for auction.  The bespoke set of gold and silver coins, designed by The Royal Mint, will go under the hammer at Stack's Bowers Galleries.

One gold and four silver 5kg (11llb) pieces are set to be auctioned off for a combined sum of over six figures. Royal Mint A gold coin with Paul McCartney's signature on, guitar and piano. Presented in a wooden boxRoyal Mint

The bespoke gold coin took over 250 hours to make, including three days of hand polishing. The Royal Mint worked directly with Sir Paul's production company, MPL Communications, and with the legendary signer himself to develop the coins.

Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at The Royal Mint said: "This is an exciting opportunity for collectors and fans of Paul McCartney to own a unique item celebrating one of the most influential music artists and songwriters of all time.

"Each coin available at auction is a testament to the exceptional skills of our craftspeople at The Royal Mint". Speaking at the time the decision to mint the coins was announced, Sir Paul said: "It's not anything I would have ever expected to happen when I was a kid."

The silver coin is one of four available in this presentation format. The gold piece represents the largest gold proof coin produced as part of The Royal Mint's Music Legends series.

It took more than 250 hours to make, including three days of polishing, and was signed by Sir Paul during his 2024 Got Back tour in Paris.

The winning bidder will receive a short video from Sir Paul. Brian Kendrella, president of Stack's Bowers Galleries, said: "Paul McCartney's timeless music and multigenerational appeal continue to inspire and unite fans across the world, making this a memorable event that all can enjoy."   A percentage of the revenue from the auction will be donated to charity, The Royal Mint said.

Source: bbc.com/Gemma Sherlock