Numismatic

1898-M Australia Gold Sovereign Victoria Veiled Head AU

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Struck in 1898 at the Melbourne Mint in Australia, this gold sovereign represents a fascinating intersection of British imperial history and Australian minting. Containing 0.2354 ounces of actual gold weight, the coin is composed of 0.9167 fine gold. It survives today in an impressive Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the intricate details of its late nineteenth-century design. The obverse features a left-facing, crowned bust of Queen Victoria, depicting her in her mature years with a draped veil. Surrounding her likeness is a traditional Latin legend. This portrait captures the long-reigning monarch near the end of her historic era, offering a dignified representation that was distributed across the global territories of the British Empire. On the reverse, the coin displays the legendary scene of Saint George on horseback, engaged in combat with a dragon. This highly detailed, active composition was created by the renowned artist Benedetto Pistrucci. Positioned just below the classic battle scene is the year 1898 alongside the 'M' mint mark, which identifies Melbourne as the specific branch mint responsible for striking this piece.