The first gold sovereigns bearing the image of King Charles III were issued in 2023, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. These coins mark a pivotal moment in modern British history—the beginning of a new royal era. Continuing the long-standing tradition of sovereign production, these coins uphold the legacy of over two centuries of British numismatics. Each sovereign is struck in 22-karat gold (.9167 fine) and contains 0.2354 troy oz of pure gold. The obverse features the first official portrait of King Charles III, facing left—opposite the direction of his mother, per royal tradition. The reverse continues to showcase Benedetto Pistrucci's iconic St. George and the Dragon design, reinforcing its classic appeal.
Historical Insight:
The introduction of the Charles III sovereign represents not only a numismatic milestone but also a cultural shift. As the first circulating coinage of a new monarch in over 70 years, these coins serve as a tangible symbol of continuity and change. Collectors value these early Charles III issues for their first-of-series significance and their place in the evolving story of British royalty.
In Extra Fine condition, these sovereigns show light wear but retain most of their original design details, offering collectors both beauty and historical importance at an accessible grade level.
Highlights:
- Contains 0.2354 troy ounces of .9167 fine (22-karat) gold
- Obverse: Features the uncrowned portrait of King Charles III, designed by Martin Jennings
- Reverse: Traditional St. George slaying the dragon by Benedetto Pistrucci (standard design)
- Legal tender face value: £1 (GBP)
- Struck by the Royal Mint (United Kingdom)
- Grade: Extra Fine (XF)
Specifications
SKU: |
260 |
Year: |
Random |
Grade: |
Extra Fine |
Grade Service: |
None |
Denomination: |
1 Sovereign |
Mint Mark: |
Not Shown |
Metal Content: |
0.2354 Troy Oz |
Purity: |
0.9167 |
Thickness: |
1.52 mm |
Diameter: |
22.05 mm |