Commemorative Coin Marking Mahatma Gandhi’s Life Unveiled for First Time in UK

A new £5 coin to commemorate the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi has been unveiled by the Chancellor during the festival of Diwali.

The commemorative coin launched to coincide with Diwali on 4 November and in the 75th year of India’s Independence.

Available in a range of metals including gold and silver, the special collectors’ coin was designed by Heena Glover and features an image of a lotus, India’s national flower, alongside one of Gandhi’s most famous quotes – “My life is my message”.

Building on the enduring relationship and cultural connections between the UK and India, it is the first time that Gandhi has been commemorated on an official UK coin with the final design chosen by Rishi Sunak, who is the Master of the Mint.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: “This coin is a fitting tribute to an influential leader who inspired millions of people around the world. As a practicing Hindu, I am proud to unveil this coin during Diwali.

He added, “Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the movement for Indian independence and it is fantastic to have a UK coin commemorating his remarkable life for the first time.”

Mr Sunak also shared the news on Twitter alongside a photo of the commemorative coin.

The £5 coin, which went on sale on 4 November, is part of the Royal Mint’s wider Diwali collection, which includes 1g and 5g gold bars in henna-style packaging, and the UK’s first gold bar depicting Lakshmi – the Hindu goddess of wealth.

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