A coin for every occasion: 8th June 1949 - "1984" Big Brother is watching.....
Throughout the month of June, ill be looking back at historical moments from the past. From conflicts to coronations, sporting moments to royal memories, and famous firsts and lasts, with my love of all things shiny and precious, ill be trying to tie these events in with coins that have been created to commemorate these moments.
One of twentieth-century literature’s most iconic novels was published on this day in 1949, with the first publication of George Orwell's classic dystopian science fiction tale, Nineteen Eighty-Four. The book tells the story of Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of ‘The Party’ – a tyrannical government that controls the world he lives in through the scrutinising eyes of the ever-watchful Big Brother. The futuristic story has since transcended literature and the impact of the book can be felt across media and pop culture. Its influence can be found in countless movies, art and even music, as well as the work of subsequent writers to this day.
The second or decimal portrait was in use from 1968 on ten and five pences, and from 1971 on all decimal coins, until 1984. Each year since 1970, the Royal Mint has produced special editions of coin sets for collectors, which are also ideal as gifts.
1984 proof sets contain:
- Scottish design of one pound coin, featuring a thistle within a Royal diadem.
- 50 pence,
- 20 pence,
- 10 pence,
- 5 pence,
- 2 pence,
- 1 penny,
- half penny.
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