a resource for coin collectors and investors
The gold sovereign was a real circulating coin until the outbreak of the First World War in 1914. At about this time, most countries in the world reduced or stopped production of gold coins for circulation, and switched to a token coinage.
The production of gold sovereigns, as bullion coins, restarted in 1957. There have been a number of breaks in production since then although a sovereign has been minted in every year. Recently production has recommenced of Gold Half Sovereigns.
Gold Sovereigns are one of the most popular of the pre-1933 gold coins in the UK, the US and the world. As one of the world's oldest, most historic, and most recognisable gold coins, the gold sovereign makes an ideal gold bullion coin.
Gold Sovereigns weigh 7.98 grams and are made of 22 carat gold (carat means 1/24) or 91.66% pure, and therefore contains 7.315 grams or 0.2353544 troy ounces of pure gold.
The great advantage of sovereigns is that they are an attractive and much loved coin with a rich tradition and history. Single coins command premium prices for use in jewellery, as pendants and rings, or as gifts for special occasions such as christenings, golden weddings, coming of age, and even just as an attractive jewellery item in its own right.