Numismatic

1898-M Australia Gold Sovereign Victoria Veiled Head MS-61 NGC

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In 1898, the Melbourne Mint struck this gold sovereign, a coin that showcases the mature, veiled portrait of Queen Victoria. The obverse displays her left-facing crowned bust, surrounded by a Latin legend. This late-reign depiction captures the long-serving monarch in her twilight years, offering a dignified representation of British imperial history. The reverse of the coin features one of the most celebrated designs in numismatic history: St. George on horseback slaying a dragon. Created by the artist Benedetto Pistrucci, this dynamic scene has become synonymous with the gold sovereign series. A tiny 'M' mint mark is integrated into the reverse design, identifying Melbourne, Australia, as the place of manufacture. Struck with a gold purity of 0.9167, this historic coin contains 0.2354 troy ounces of gold. This particular specimen has been certified in Mint State 61 (MS-61) condition, preserving the intricate details of Pistrucci's masterpiece and the royal portrait for modern observers to appreciate.