09 November 2021
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Chancellor Rishi Sunak has unveiled a new £5 coin celebrating the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi – one of the world’s most influential leaders.
The new coins marks the first time that Gandhi has been commemorated on an official UK coin, designed and made by The Royal Mint. Struck in the 75th year of India’s Independence, the coin features an image of a lotus, India’s national flower, and one of Gandhi’s most famous quotes – ‘My life is my message’.
Born in Porbandar, India, in 1869, Gandhi was instrumental in the movement for Indian independence. His followers called him ‘Mahatma’, which means ‘great soul’, and he is still widely remembered by that name.
The new coin, designed by Heena Glover, is available in a range of finishes including:
- a gold one ounce
- silver one ounce
- £5 ‘brilliant uncirculated’
Rishi Sunak, Chancellor of the Exchequer and Master of the Mint, said:
“This coin is a fitting tribute to an influential leader who inspired millions of people around the world for his social activism. As a practicing Hindu, I am proud to unveil this coin during Diwali. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the movement for Indian independence and it is fantastic to have a UK coin commemorating his remarkable life for the first time.”
Nicola Howell, Chief Customer Officer for The Royal Mint, said:
“We are delighted to unveil the first official UK coin commemorating the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. The beautiful design has been struck in the 75th year of India’s Independence, and builds on the enduring relationship and cultural connections between the UK and India.
“Working with the Hindu community in our heartland of South Wales, we have also created a beautiful 20g gold bar depicting Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. We hope it will be a treasured addition for Diwali.”
More information about the Mahatma Gandhi coin and the Diwali range of gold bars is available at: www.royalmint.com
