British Gold Sovereign

1817-Present • United Kingdom • £1

About This Coin

The British Gold Sovereign is one of the world's most prestigious gold coins. Featuring the reigning monarch on the obverse and Saint George slaying the dragon on the reverse, it has been minted for over 200 years.

Specifications

Composition

22 karat gold (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper)

Weight

7.98 grams

Diameter

22.05 mm

Edge

Milled

Designer

Benedetto Pistrucci (St. George design)

Mintage

Varies by year and mint

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	Gold melt value (~$450)
Good (G)	Gold melt + 10-20%
Fine (F)	Gold melt + 20-30%
Very Fine (VF)	Gold melt + 30-50%
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	Gold melt + 50-100%
Uncirculated (MS)	Gold melt + 100-500%

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

Look for the mint mark on the reverse near the date (C=Ottawa, I=Bombay, M=Melbourne, P=Perth, S=Sydney, SA=Pretoria). Check the edge for reeding. Genuine sovereigns should weigh exactly 7.98 grams. The obverse features the current or historical monarch.

Historical Context

First minted in 1817 during George III's reign, the Sovereign has been produced intermittently for over 200 years. It was a primary coin of the British Empire and backed the gold standard. The iconic St. George and the Dragon design by Benedetto Pistrucci is one of the most enduring coin designs in history.

Notable Varieties

Victorian Young Head
Victorian Jubilee Head
Victorian Old Head
Edward VII
George V
Elizabeth II

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Gold Sovereign a good investment?

Gold Sovereigns are considered excellent investments due to their gold content, global recognition, and historical significance. In the UK, they are VAT-free and CGT-exempt. They typically trade at a small premium over gold melt value.

How can I tell if my Sovereign is real gold?

Check the weight (7.98g exactly), diameter (22.05mm), and use a magnet test (gold is non-magnetic). Genuine sovereigns have crisp details and proper reeding on the edge. Consider professional authentication for valuable dates.