The Central Bank of Ireland has unveiled (18th July) the design of their upcoming collector coin which is the first in a numismatic series entitled “Modern Irish Musicians.” The series begins with coins honouring the talent of musician Rory Gallagher (1948–1995) and also remembers what would have been his 70th birthday. Born on the 2nd March 1948, in Ballyshannon, the self-taught musician became an internationally acclaimed folk hero.
This soft-spoken Irishman, characterised by his flowing locks and trademark working man stage clothes, was far from ordinary. Gallagher became a virtuoso who forged a musical revolution in his native land. He shunned the traps of fame and stardom, yet became an internationally acclaimed musician whose name became synonymous with contemporary Irish music.
After collapsing onstage in Rotterdam during a performance in January 1995, Rory was hospitalised in London with what was later diagnosed as liver failure. Following a successful transplant operation, he seemed to be recovering, but he later caught an infection and died in June 1995.
The coin’s design is the work of graphic artist Michael Guilfoyle, who has designed many previous coins issued by the Central Bank. The coin will have a strict mintage of just 3,000 pieces.
| Denom. | Metal | Weight | Diameter | Quality | Maximum Mintage |
| €15 | .925 Silver | 28.2 g | 38.6 mm | Proof | 3,000 |
The coin, which is the first in the “Modern Irish Musicians” series, honours Ireland’s modern musical talents will be available for purchase in September. This series which is very likely to become very popular will run from 2018 to 2020 only and will include coins to commemorate the lives of Irish musicians Phil Lynott and Luke Kelly.
Coin Update will provide final images of the coins as they become available and more in-depth information during the launch in September. For additional information on this coin and others issued by the Central Bank of Ireland, please visit their website. Since the coin is expected to become available in September 2018, please check the website of the Central Bank’s Collector coin department closer to their official date of issue to inquire about an order.
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How can i order the Rory Gallagher coin?
Delighted that Rory is being recognised by issue of commemorative coin. However, press release claims him as a “folk hero” when his main musical styles were blues and rock (although he was hightly accomplished accoustic guitarist too). Perhaps this should be amended?
Is there only one choice of Rory coin?
Can it be purchased now?
I used to get mail notifications re new coins but that ceased as, seemingly, has emails that replaced postal communication?
Regards.
Can u please let me know when and where I can purchase this coin, and the price, thank you, x
Hello Readers,
The coin is available directly from the collector coin department of the Central Bank of Ireland who accept international orders and credit cards – I would suggest checking their e-webshop periodically to look for ordering information, this may be a popular coin.