Rock and roll history is set to be immortalised with the unveiling by the UK's Royal Mint of a collectible coin to celebrate the life of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, commemorating the fortieth anniversary of the rock band's show-stealing performance at Live Aid in July 1985 and also the fortieth anniversary of Mercury's first solo studio album Mr Bad Guy, released the same year.

The Royal Mint describes the coin as an "extraordinary tribute to the rock icon whose voice and showmanship defined generations".

The coin captures Mercury mid-performance, with his signature inscribed alongside his portrait. "The design's intricate details tell the story of Mercury's extraordinary talent through carefully crafted design elements," the Royal Mint notes.

"Freddie's legendary four-octave vocal range is represented by a musical stave that runs around the edge of the coin, spanning from bass to treble notes. The studded armband edge design draws inspiration from his iconic Live Aid performance outfit, a fitting tribute to what many consider the greatest rock performance of all time.

"A selection of the coins will also feature colour, bringing Freddie's iconic yellow jacket to life on the coin design and capturing the vibrant energy that made him such a magnetic stage presence," it adds.

Mercury's sister Kashmira Bulsara visited the Royal Mint to strike the first of these collectible coins herself.

"Having Kashmira visit us to strike the first Freddie Mercury coin was incredibly moving and made this project even more special. Freddie Mercury wasn't just a musician; he was a force of nature who transformed every stage he stepped onto. This coin captures that electric energy and celebrates a truly global icon whose influence continues to inspire generations. The level of detail in this design, from his signature to the musical stave representing his incredible vocal range, makes this one of our most special commemorative pieces," comments Royal Mint commemorative coin director Rebecca Morgan.

"Striking the first coin at The Royal Mint was such an emotional and proud moment for me. Freddie would have been absolutely delighted to see himself honoured in this way and to know that his family was part of bringing this tribute to life.

"He always had such respect for British traditions and institutions and to have The Royal Mint celebrate his legacy with such beautiful artistry would have meant the world to him. The coin perfectly captures his passion and the joy he brought to millions through his music," Bulsara adds.

In a fitting tribute to Mercury's philanthropic legacy, the Royal Mint will also gift a special gold proof version of the coin to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, the Aids charity founded in his memory. The charity will auction this unique piece in the coming months, continuing Mercury's mission to support those affected by HIV and Aids.

Mercury is the latest music artist to form part of the Royal Mint's ongoing 'Music Legends' coin series, which has previously minted collectible coins to honour David Bowie, George Michael, Shirley Bassey and Paul McCartney.