Classic Rock
Elton John is honored with commemorative coin in England
Elton John became the second artist to be honored by the British Royal Mint, with a commemorative coin. The coin designed by artist Bradley Morgan Johnson, shows John’s unmistakable straw hat with his characteristic glasses with musical notes.
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“It is truly a fabulous honor to be recognized in this way,” said John, 73. The past few years have included some of the most memorable moments of my career. This is another milestone in my journey.” Elton John, who was awarded a knight in 1998, is the second artist to be celebrated in the Royal Mint music legend series after Queen.
He has sold more than 250 million records, with hits like “Rocket Man”, “Your Song” and “Crocodile Rock”. The singer was forced to postpone a long farewell tour due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Royal Mint also said it is working with John to create a special collector’s piece, to be auctioned later this year, to raise money for charity at a time when many in the industry are struggling.
See the silver and gold Elton John commemorative coins:
Elton
Elton John’s real name is Reginald Dwight. Born in 1947, he grew up in the Pinner area of London. He learned to play the piano early, and in 1962 he formed a blues band called Bluesology. He met his lyricist Bernie Taupin in 1967, after both responded to an ad for composers. So for two years, they produced songs for other artists, including Roger Cook and Lulu. John also worked as a studio musician for artists like The Hollies and The Scaffold. In 1969, he released his debut album, Empty Sky. In 1970, he released the single Your Song, from his second album, Elton John, reaching the top ten in the UK and the USA. It was his first successful single.
