COINS

Jamaica's central bank has released a commemorative coin of Bob Marley marking the 60th anniversary of the reggae icon's birth.

The $50 denomination bi-metallic coin manufactured in 2005, is the second minted coin of the reggae icon.

Made of silver and gold, the coins are currently being sold for $6,000 (US$1,000; euro80).

Information on the number of coins placed on the market was not immediately available.

Minted in London

They were minted by the London-based British Royal Mint, a 1,100-year-old company that manufactures collector's items, and provides coinage for Britain and 100 other countries, including Jamaica.

The coins became available to the public in 2006 and can be purchased directly from the Bank of Jamaica's banking department.

Bank of Jamaica has issued similar coins in the past, commemorating the national heroes; 2004 triple Olympic medallist Veronica Campbell; and one for the University of the West Indies, Mona's 60th, among others.