British Gold Sovereign

1817-Present • United Kingdom • £1 (One Pound Sterling)

About This Coin

The modern sovereign is one of the world's most recognized gold coins, featuring the reigning monarch on the obverse and St. George slaying the dragon on the reverse. A staple of gold bullion investing.

Specifications

Composition

91.67% Gold (22 karat), 8.33% Copper

Weight

7.98 grams (0.2354 oz gold)

Diameter

22.05 mm

Edge

Milled

Designer

Various (Benedetto Pistrucci for St. George design)

Mintage

Millions over 200+ years

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	Gold melt (~$450)
Good (G)	Gold melt + 5%
Fine (F)	Gold melt + 10%
Very Fine (VF)	Gold melt + 15-25%
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	Gold melt + 25-50%
Uncirculated (MS)	$500-800 (common dates); rare dates $1,000-10,000+

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

Identification Tips

The obverse shows the reigning monarch (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, VI, Elizabeth II, or Charles III). The reverse typically features Benedetto Pistrucci's iconic St. George slaying the dragon. Check for mint marks - branches minted sovereigns worldwide (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Ottawa, Bombay, Pretoria). Weight is precisely 7.98g. Diameter is 22.05mm. Modern coins have a milled edge.

Historical Context

The modern sovereign was introduced in 1817 following the Great Recoinage. It became the primary gold coin of the British Empire, minted in branches across the Empire to facilitate trade. Production paused 1933-1957, then resumed for bullion. The St. George and dragon design by Pistrucci is considered one of the finest coin designs ever created. Sovereigns remain popular for bullion and investment due to capital gains tax exemptions in the UK.

Notable Varieties

Victorian (Young/Jubilee/Old Head)
Edwardian
George V
George VI
Elizabeth II (many portraits)
Charles III
Branch mint varieties (S, M, P, C, I, SA)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are British sovereigns a good investment?

Yes - they're exempt from capital gains tax in the UK, trade near bullion price with small premiums, and are highly liquid worldwide. They contain 0.2354 oz of pure gold. Rare dates and mint marks can have significant numismatic premium above gold value.

How can I tell if a sovereign is real gold?

Check the weight (7.98g exactly), diameter (22.05mm), and use a gold testing kit or XRF analyzer. Genuine sovereigns are non-magnetic, have sharp details, and a distinctive ring when dropped on a hard surface. Counterfeits are common - buy from reputable dealers.