Cult classic, The Matrix, plugs into gold for the first time with Neo being The One on two collectible coins

The Matrix movies, a groundbreaking science fiction trilogy created by the Wachowski siblings, are some of the very best in science-fiction movie-making, especially the ground-breaking original. Set in a dystopian future, the series explores a complex virtual reality world called the Matrix, where humanity unknowingly exists as slaves while their minds are trapped in a simulated reality. The films blend philosophical ideas with intense action sequences, offering a thought-provoking examination of identity, free will, and the nature of reality itself. The protagonist, Neo, portrayed by Keanu Reeves, discovers his true potential as “The One,” destined to lead a rebellion against the machines that control the Matrix.

Through visually stunning visuals and groundbreaking special effects, the Matrix movies pushed the boundaries of filmmaking, revolutionising the action genre and the trilogy’s unique blend of cyberpunk aesthetics, martial arts choreography, and existential themes created a cultural phenomenon that continues to appeal to this day. The franchise has appeared in the numismatic world before, most notably from the NZ Mint, with a coloured silver Neo coin, but this is the first we’ve seen in gold.

A simple design, and we’re really pleased with that. The depiction of Keanu Reeve’s ‘Neo’ is a really outstanding one, doing away with unnecessary colouration, often hugely detrimental on a gold coin in our opinion, for a sharp and defined natural strike. There is, of course, a cascade of digital characters falling across the reverse face, which also continues on the obverse, behind ‘The Architect’ (Queen Elizabeth II…). We like this one, and in the pop-culture genre, the format is a breath of fresh air.

Two sizes make up this range at launch, both struck in 0.9999 fineness gold, and both boxed with a Certificate of Authenticity. For those with deep pockets, there’s a one-ounce variant with a mintage of just 100 pieces. For the rest of us, the 1/10 oz coin sports the same design, and has a mintage of 500. Both are available to order now, with shipping commencing in October. Is Agent Smith inbound?