Commemorative Coin Featuring "Big Brother is Watching You" Inscription Released
A special commemorative coin has been launched to honor the memory of George Orwell, the author of "Nineteen Eighty-four," on the 75th anniversary of his death. The coin, valued at 2 pounds ($2.40), showcases an image that resembles an eye but is actually a camera lens. The edge of the coin bears a quote from Orwell's iconic novel: "There was truth and there was untruth." Coin designer Henry Gray explained that the central theme of totalitarianism inspired his creation. "In today's world, where surveillance is omnipresent through phones and cameras, and our conversations are monitored by advertisers, the concept of being under constant watch is very relevant, echoing the essence of '1984'," Gray stated. "This is why the eye in the design is not a realistic human eye – it lacks details like eyelashes to give it a monocular appearance. It symbolizes a camera lens that gazes at you incessantly, without blinking."
George Orwell's Legacy in "Nineteen Eighty-four"
"Nineteen Eighty-four," a dystopian novel penned by George Orwell, portrays the clandestine resistance of civil servant Winston Smith against a despotic regime led by the enigmatic figure, Big Brother. Orwell, renowned for his work "Animal Farm," passed away in a London hospital at the age of 46 on January 21, 1950, shortly after the publication of "Nineteen Eighty-four." The Royal Mint disclosed that the limited edition collector's coin will be unveiled this Wednesday, priced at a minimum of 17.50 pounds each.
Literary Icons Commemorated on 2-Pound Coins
Joining the ranks of literary luminaries immortalized on 2-pound coins, such as Jane Austen and J.R.R. Tolkien, George Orwell now takes his place with a unique coin bearing the iconic inscription "Big Brother is watching you." The release of this special coin serves as a tribute to Orwell's enduring influence and the profound themes explored in his literary works, resonating with readers across generations.
