Music Legends: Gold & Silver Coins

Queen

Queen was formed in 1970 with Freddie Mercury on vocals, Brian May on guitar, John Deacon on bass guitar and Roger Taylor on drums. Known for their music videos, catchy songs and Mercury's eccentric stage performances, the band quickly became one of the biggest rock bands in the world and have sold an estimated 170 - 300 million albums. 

Elton John

John was born musically gifted; he taught himself piano at the age of 3 and started piano lessons when he was just 7. By 15 he was working as a pianist at a pub. His long-time collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin has spawned such hits as Candle in the Wind, Rocket Man, Tiny Dancer, I'm Still Standing and Your Song. The singer-songwriter has released 33 studio albums, 128 official singles, and sold over 300 million records worldwide. 

David Bowie

Bowie is undoubtedly one of the most influential musicians in modern history. Known for his creative style and innovative and constantly evolving music, as well as his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. Bowie has sold over 100 million records. Some of his best known works include Heroes, Life on Mars, Let's Dance, Changes and his collaboration with Queen on the song Under Pressure. He was also an accomplished actor, with performances in The Prestige, The Man Who Fell to Earth, The Snowman, Zoolander, Extras and 80's cult classic, Labyrinth.

The Who

The Who were formed in 1964 after Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, and John Entwistle changed their band name from The Detours. Shortly after, Keith Moon joined the group who then went on to become one of the world's most influential rock bands, with singles like "My Generation", and the rock opera "Tommy".

The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are one of the biggest bands in history, with hits including Paint It Black, Satisfaction, Sympathy for the Devil and Jumpin' Jack Flash. The band formed in 1962 and to-date have released 30 studio albums and 23 live albums. In 1989 the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They were added to the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004. 

During their 60 years of Rock 'n' Roll royalty, the Rolling Stones have achieved:

8 UK number one singles.

13 UK number one albums.

3 Grammy awards.

The Grammy Lifetime achievement award.

Dame Shirley Bassey

Dame Shirley Bassey, a Welsh singer, began her remarkable career in the mid-1950s and continues to enchant audiences to this very day. Her musical journey has been adorned with numerous accolades, including multiple number one singles and prestigious Grammy Awards. To honor her exceptional musical contributions, The Royal Mint introduced the Dame Shirley Bassey coins as part of their esteemed Music Legends series, paying tribute to her enduring legacy and profound impact on the world of music.