UK Royal Mint launches gold bar featuring Goddess Lakshmi for Diwali

The gold bar, designed by designer Emma Noble, weighs 20 grams and is made up of 999.9 fine gold.

The 'Lakshmi' gold bar has a thickness of 2.1 mm and each bar will weigh a unique serial number.

The bars, which also feature features an Om symbol, have been priced at 1080 pounds. The offering has been described by the Royal Mint as an example of British minting excellence and time-honoured traditions.

The launch of the gold bar in view of the traditional gold purchase made by Indians all over the world has been further described by the Royal Mint as "reflective of its ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion and an expansion of diverse cultural celebrations in the country."

With gold being a traditional and auspicious gift during the Diwali festival, we wanted to develop a product that incorporates both beauty and tradition, but with a modern twist," said Andrew Dickey, Divisional Director for Precious Metals at the Royal Mint.

"The bar is a shining example of this and we were delighted to work with Nilesh Kabaria of the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Cardiff to ensure that we represent the Hindu Goddess of Wealth accurately and appropriately," he said.

The bar, retailed at the official website of Royal Mint, follows close collaboration with the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Cardiff on its intricate design.

The bullion bar will also be blessed at the Shree Swaminarayan Temple's Diwali ceremony as part of their "Lakshmi Poojan", where Royal Mint representatives will be present.