Numismatic

1838-1874 Great Britain Gold Sovereign Victoria Shield AU

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During the mid nineteenth century, the United Kingdom circulated a gold coin that became a global standard of trade. Struck between 1838 and 1874, this sovereign contains 0.2354 troy ounces of gold, with a purity of 91.67 percent. These pieces were produced by the Royal Mint alongside other mint facilities across the British Commonwealth, representing a vast network of coinage production during the Victorian era. The obverse of the coin displays a delicate portrait of a young Queen Victoria, capturing the early years of her historic reign. This youthful depiction contrasts with her later, more mature portraits, offering a glimpse into the beginning of an era. On the reverse, the coin features an intricate crowned shield enveloped by a decorative wreath. Surrounding this central heraldic design is a traditional Latin legend. Cataloged by numismatists as KM #735.1, these sovereigns survive today as fascinating examples of nineteenth-century British craftsmanship, preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition.