The ‘Duke’ Comes to Coins

Any fan of Western movies knows the name, John Wayne. He is also known as “the Duke.” Born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, he graced the silver screen throughout the 20th century. He was a staple of the Western film genre and starred in, directed and produced more than 170 movies over his 50-year career. Some films include McClintock, Chisum and True Grit.

To celebrate the actor, the Perth Mint has struck two types of coins. The first is a coin made of 99.99 percent gold and is issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of Tuvalu. It is releasing no more than 1,000. The reverse prominently displays the likeness of John Wayne wearing his trademark cowboy hat and bandana set against a rural Western backdrop. Along the edge of the coin is a border of stars, reminiscent of the American flag with the inscription “JOHN WAYNE” and the Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark.

The second coin is made of 99.99 percent silver and also issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of Tuvalu. This coin features the same reverse design as the gold, however, in color. John Wayne’s likeness comes through and the border of stars is a striking blue.

The obverse of each coin displays the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, the monetary denomination, weight, and fineness, along with the 2020 year-date.

The coins are presented in a John Wayne-branded case and are accompanied by a Numbered Certificate of Authenticity. They will be released in November for $120 each. For more information, visit www.perthmint.com. All images courtesy of the Perth Mint.

“John Wayne,” “Duke” and “The Duke” are the exclusive trademarks of the John Wayne name, image, likeness, and voice, and all other related indicia are the intellectual property of John Wayne Enterprises, LLC.