A Spark of Being

Frankenstein is one of the most celebrated and significant novels in the history of literature. Written by a young Mary Shelley and published anonymously when she was aged 21, the novel has been called the greatest horror novel of all time and many experts and fans claim it is the very first science fiction novel.

The novel continues to be used in intellectual discussions, centring on debates of radical thinking, scientific advancements and public perception. Its influence is still seen today, with countless novels, films, works of art and even video games citing the story of Frankenstein as a prime instigator in their creation.

To celebrate the cultural significance and important legacy of Frankenstein, we are releasing a £2 silver Proof piedfort coin, designed by Royal Mint coin designer Thomas T. Docherty. ECG monitor style wording of ‘Frankenstein’ is evident in the design, fittingly depicting a jagged pulse of a heartbeat, imitating the theme of life and death which manifests throughout the novel.