A hugely talented writer and visionary thinker, George Orwell is best known for his critically acclaimed novels Animal Farm (1945) and 1984 (1949). One of the most influential literary figures of the twentieth century, Orwell possessed a distinct writing style and astute way of thinking. Many of his non-fiction works were commentaries based on real-life experiences, including a tour of the industrial north, living in poverty for several years, and serving as a Republican volunteer against Francisco Francos Nationalist faction. It was the latter experience that fostered Orwells staunch anti-totalitarianism mindset, a pervasive theme throughout his works.

This coin features a masterfully crafted reverse design by the artist Henry Gray. In a clever twist, what appears to be an eye at the designs centrepiece is a camera lens, which acknowledges the theme of totalitarianism in Orwells writing. Taken from 1984, the quote Big brother is watching you encircles the lens, whilst THERE WAS TRUTH AND THERE WAS UNTRUTH, another quote from the novel, serves as the coinsedge inscription.