First look at new John McCormack coin

A new €10 commemorative coin celebrating the life of Athlone’s most famous son, tenor John McCormack has been unveiled by the Central Bank.

The new collector’s edition silver coin, sure to be of major interest to aficionados of the famed singer in Ireland and worldwide, will be officially launched on January 29 next at a ceremony in Dublin.

A group from Athlone Town Council, including the Mayor of Athlone Cllr Gabrielle McFadden will travel to the capital for the occasion, the budget meeting of the local authority heard on Tuesday.

The public will be able to buy the eye-catching coin, designed by Michael Guilfoyle, from the Central Bank, Dame street office or by phone, mail order or via their website for €44. Just 8,000 are being made available for sale.

The Central Bank of Ireland acts as agent on behalf of the Minister for Finance in the issue of circulation and commemorative coins.

Each year, as part of the European Silver Programme, European Mints issue a commemorative coin with a centrally agreed theme. The theme for 2014 is European Musicians and John McCormack was the chosen nominee for Ireland.