Description
This is a limited edition gold proof half Sovereign, minted in 1987. The coin features the third definitive portrait of the Queen, created by sculptor Raphael David Maklouf. This effigy was used on British currency from 1985 to 1997 and depicts Elizabeth II facing left, adorned with the George IV State Diadem Crown.
The youthful engraving is complemented by a historic reverse design that is synonymous with the gold Sovereign. This design was originally created for the first modern Sovereigns, which were issued in 1817 following the Napoleonic Wars. The reverse features Saint George, England’s patron saint, riding a rearing horse that tramples a cowering dragon beneath its hooves. This design, created by Italian artist Benedetto Pistrucci, has been featured on these coins for over two centuries. This item includes its original box and a numbered certificate of authenticity.
What distinguishes this edition is its proof finish, which is achieved through multiple strikes with hand-prepared dies. Proof coins exhibit an attractive high-contrast appearance and are minted in smaller quantities compared to their bullion counterparts. This particular Sovereign is one of 20,687 issued in 1987.
This 1987 proof half Sovereign is struck in 22-carat gold (91.67% pure gold) and has a weight of 3.99 grams. These proof coins are presented in a box and a certificate of authenticity.
