Semi-Numismatic

1898 Great Britain Gold Half-Sovereign Victoria Veil AU

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Struck in the final years of the nineteenth century, this 1898 gold coin from Great Britain represents a fascinating era of British coinage. Minted by the Royal Mint, the half-sovereign is composed of 0.1176 troy ounces of gold with a purity of 0.9167. This particular specimen is preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition, offering a remarkably clear look at its historic imagery and inscriptions. The obverse of the coin displays the left-facing profile of Queen Victoria wearing a veil, a design characteristic of her later reign. Surrounding her likeness are the Latin inscriptions of her titles, including VICTORIA, DEI GRA, BRITT REGINA, and FID DEF. These traditional abbreviations translate to her role as Queen of Britain by the Grace of God and Defender of the Faith. On the reverse, the coin features the classic, dynamic depiction of Saint George on horseback, facing right as he slays the dragon. The year 1898 is clearly struck at the bottom of the design. With a mintage of 2,869,000 pieces, this coin is cataloged as KM#784 and Sp#3878, serving as a compelling artifact from the late Victorian period.