Set Description
GT.BRITAIN, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1817-2017, CIRCULATION ISSUES ( GEORGE III - ELIZABETH II ).
2017: The 200th anniversary of the "modern" gold sovereign and "modern" gold half-sovereign.
The GOLD SOVEREIGN is one of Britain's famous coins. A coin full of history and emotional attachment which has become an icon of Britain itself. Synonymous with wealth and reliability the sovereign has played an important part in the nation's, and the world's history. The sovereign flourished alongside Britain's growing empire to become a coin of international status. Its fineness and accuracy is amongst the highest standards of any coins throughout the world.
Highly prized for its numismatic value, the sovereign is the favourite of coin collectors the world over.
BRIEF HISTORY
On 28 October 1489 King Henry VII of England gave authority for the production of a new gold coin of one pound or twenty shillings in value,15.55 grams (240 grains) in weight and made from the traditional fine-gold standard established under Edward III. This coin became known as a " SOVEREIGN " because the obverse design depicted the King enthroned in regal splendor. It was the largest coin yet issued in England and also the most beautiful.
The ORIGINAL GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN, a coin of half-pound or ten shillings in value and 96 grains in weight, was introduced a few years after the gold sovereign, during the reign of King Henry VIII (1509-1547), in the year 1544, nearly 300 years before the modern coinage period. The original design was basically a smaller version of the full sovereign. The obverse features the crowned King facing and seated in his chair of state holding his sceptre and orb, and with a large rose at his feet. The legend reads HENRIC 8 GRA AGL FRANCIE HIBER REX. The reverse displays a royal shield quartered and containing the arms of France and England, and this is supported on either side by a lion and a dragon. The letters HR are placed at the bottom. The legend reads IHS AUTEM TRANSIES PERIM EDIUM ILLORUM IBAT. The mint mark Lis appears within the legend centrally placed at the top on both obverse and reverse of the coin.
The half-sovereign continued to be issued in similar form for the reign of Edward VI (1547-1553), the young boy who succeeded his father at only nine years of age. In his short reign of just over six years four distinct series of gold coins were produced and all but one of these carried the bust and name of his father Henry VIII. It is interesting to note that the exception was the gold half-sovereign, and this features the much more youthful head of Edward himself.
The gold half-sovereign was next struck in the reign of James I (1603-1625) during his first coinage up to and including 1604 and then discontinued.
With the introduction of regular machine made "milled" coinage under Charles II (1660-1685) the half guinea was introduced, with a value originally of ten shillings, but later of ten shillings and sixpence. So the gold half-sovereign would not appear again until the reign of George III (1760-1820).
In 1816 there was a major change in British coinage powered by the industrial revolution. The Royal Mint moved from the Tower of London to new premises on nearby Tower Hill and acquired powerful new steam-powered coining presses designed by Mathew Boulton and James Watt. In 1817 the "modern" half-sovereign was born.
The "modern" SOVEREIGN, smaller and featuring on the reverse the classic St. George and the dragon design by Benedetto Pistrucci and the "modern" HALF-SOVEREIGN featuring the Royal Arms were introduced in 1817, during the reign of King George III (1760-1820), taking the form in which we know them today.
SPECIFICATIONS OF THE GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
DIAMETER: 19.3-19.4mm
WEIGHT: 3.994g
ALLOY: Gold.
FINENESS: 22 Carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 0.916
EDGE: Milled.
Currency gold half-sovereigns continued to be issued by the Royal Mint in London for the reigns of King George IV (1821-1830), King William IV (1831-1837), Queen Victoria (1838-1901), King Edward VII (1902-1910), King George V (1911-1915) and Queen Elizabeth II (1982-Date).
During the first world war, Britain needed gold bullion to finance the war effort. Banknotes were introduced into regular circulation, and within a few years, sovereigns and half sovereigns ceased to be used in everyday transactions. Production of half sovereigns at the Royal Mint stopped in 1915, and also at the Melbourne mint.
The other branch mints continued to produce half sovereigns, Sydney Australia until 1916, Perth Australia until 1920, and Pretoria South Africa until 1926.
No further half sovereigns were issued for circulation by the Royal Mint until 1982 and only for that year, although half sovereigns were included in the George VI proof set of 1937 which was available for collectors. Half sovereigns were also minted but not issued for Edward VIII in 1937, and for Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
In 1980 and 1982, a proof version was issued, and this continues to the present.
In 1989, a special 500th anniversary commemorative design was produced in proof, inspired by the very first gold sovereign of 1489, showing H.M. Queen Elizabeth II seated facing on a throne.
The year 2000 was of particular interest to half-sovereign enthusiasts, because for the first time since 1982 a bullion type half-sovereign was struck and continued to be struck yearly ever since.
Currency Half-sovereigns were not issued by the Royal Mint on the following dates: 1822, 1829-1833, 1839-1840, 1854, 1868, 1881-1882, 1886, 1888-1889, 1916-1981, 1983-1999.
The half sovereign is a "protected coin" for the purposes of Part II of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981.
The European Commission have published a list of gold coins, including the gold sovereign and half-sovereign, which must be treated as investment gold in all EC member states. So the half-sovereign meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price.
MINTAGE and RARITY of Gold Half-sovereigns (1817-1915) by M.A.Marsh.
GEORGE III (1760-1820)
1817: 2,080,197 C
1818: 1,030,286 R
1818/7: Not known R5
1820: 35,043 R2
GEORGE IV (1821-1830)
1821: 231,288 R5
1823: 224,280 R2
1824: 591,538 S
1825: 761,150 N
1826: 344,830 R
1827: 492,014 S
1828: 1,224,754 N
WILLIAM IV (1831-1837)
1834: 133899. Small size (17.9mm). R2
1835: 772554. Normal size (19.4mm). S
1836: 146865. Normal size (19.4mm). R2
1836: Not Known. Obv. struck from sixpence die (19.4mm). R5
1837: 160207. Normal size (19.4mm). R
VICTORIA (1838-1901)
1838: 273,341 R
1841: 508,835 R2
1842: 2,223,352 N
1843: 1,251,762 R
1844: 1,127,007 R
1845: 887,526 R3
1846: 1,063,928 R
1847: 928,656 R
1848: 410,595 R2
1848/7: Not Known R4
1849: 845,112 R
1850: 179,275 R3
1851: 773,275 S
1852: 1,377,671 N
1853: 2,708,796 N
1855: 1,120,362 N
1856: 2,391,909 N
1857: 728,223 S
1858: 855,578 R
1859: 2,203,813 N
1860: 1,131,500 N
1861: 1,130,867 N
1862: Not Known R6
1863: 1,374,574 R
1864: 1,758,490 N
1865: 1,834,750 N
1866: 2,058,776 N
1867: 992,795 N
1869: 1,861,764 N
1870: 981,408 N
1871: 2,217,760 N
1872: 3,235,112 N
1873: 2,003,464 N
1874: 1,883,872 N
1875: 516,240 S
1876: 2,804,187 N
1877: 1,962,800 N
1878: 2,317,506 N
1879: 35,201 R2
1880: 1,008,362 R
1883: 2,807,411 C
1884: 1,121,600 N
1885: 4,533,605 C
1885/3: Not Known R5
1887: 841,200 S
1890: 2,243,200 N
1891: 1,087,884 S
1892: 13,665,480 C
1893: 4,392,218 N
1894: 3,794,591 C
1895: 2,869,183 C
1896: 2,946,605 C
1897: 3,568,156 C
1898: 2,868,527 C
1899: 3,361,881 C
1900: 4,307,372 C
1901: 2,037,664 C
EDWARD VII (1902-1910)
1902: 4,244,457 C
1903: 2,522,057 C
1904: 1,717,440 S
1905: 3,023,993 C
1906: 4,245,437 C
1907: 4,233,421 C
1908: 3,996,992 C
1909: 4,010,715 C
1910: 5,023,881 C
GEORGE V (1911-1936)
1911: 6,104,106 C
1912: 6,224,316 C
1913: 6,094,290 C
1914: 7,251,124 C
1915: 2,042,747 C
THE REIGNS
The Reign of KING GEORGE III (1760-1820) House of Hanover.
Born: 4 June 1738.
Accession: 25 October 1760.
Married: Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz 8 September 1761 the day they met for the first time.
Coronation: Tuesday, 22 September 1761.
Children: nine sons, six daughters.
Died: 29 January 1820, aged 81.
KING GEORGE III, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1817-1820.
On 25 October 1760 King George II died and his grandson succeeded to the throne as George III. It was during this reign that the introduction of the new modern coinage began.
Currency half-sovereigns during this reign were only issued for the years 1817,1818 and 1820, none being issued for 1819. These half-sovereigns featured on the obverse the King's head facing right and the date at the bottom of the coin; on the reverse an angular shield surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom.
A good example of the first two dates should not prove too difficult for the collector to obtain, however, the half-sovereign for 1820 (R2 M.Marsh) will not be easy to acquire especially in high grade, and this is without doubt because a low mintage of only 35,043 of this date were struck. The 1818/7 variety (401A M.Marsh) must be exceedingly rare, as not a single example appeared for many years.
The Reign of KING GEORGE IV (1820-1830) House of Hanover.
Born: 12 August 1762.
Accession: 29 January. 1820
Married: Caroline of Brunswick 8 April 1795 later separated and banned from attending the Coronation.
Coronation: Thursday, 19 July 1821.
Child: one daughter Charlotte who predeceased her Father 6 November 1817.
Died: 26 June 1830, aged 67.
KING GEORGE IV, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1821-1828.
King George IV (1763-1830) succeeded to the throne upon the death of his father George III on 29 January 1820. Three types of half-sovereigns were issued during his reign.
The first half-sovereign (Type 1) was issued by the Royal Mint only for the year 1821 and it was a splendid example of both engraving and design by Pistrucci. It carried a magnificent laureate head bust of the King, and its reverse featured the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom garnished and surmounted by a large crown. The half-sovereign for 1821 (R5 M.Marsh) is an elusive coin, very difficult to obtain, especially in high grade.
The half-sovereign (Type 2) was next issued in 1823 (R2 M.Marsh) with the same obverse as in 1821, but with a plain square shield surmounted by a crown on the reverse. This second issue was further struck for the years 1824 and 1825.
The (Type 3) half-sovereign featured the bust of the King bare headed on the obverse. The reverse carried a beautifully garnished shield surmounted by the royal crown. Type 3 half-sovereigns were first issued bearing the date 1826 and were also struck for 1827 and 1828.
In general half-sovereigns have become a great deal more difficult to find these days, and without doubt those of George IV are very hard for the collector to acquire.
The Reign of KING WILLIAM IV (1830-1837) House of Hanover.
Born: 21 August 1765.
Accession: 26 June 1830.
Married: Adelaide of Saxe-Coburg and Meiningen, 11 July 1818 after first meeting a week before, a double wedding with his brother, Prince Edward the Duke of Kent.
Coronation: Thursday, 8 September 1831.
Children: two daughters who both died in childhood, ten illegitimate children previously.
Died: 20 June 1837.
KING WILLIAM IV, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1834-1837.
King William IV (1765-1837) succeeded to the throne upon the death of his elder brother in June 1830. No currency gold coins were issued for that year. Although proofs were issued of both the sovereign and half-sovereign bearing the date of 1831, and also a currency sovereign for the same year, the half-sovereign was not issued as a currency piece for this reign until 1834. The 1834 half sovereign had a diameter of only 17.9mm. This was considerably smaller than any other half-sovereign previously struck during the modern era, and they in fact measured 19.4mm; it was though the same weight and fineness as previous issues. Four more currency issues of half-sovereigns (1835, 1836, 1837) were made during this short reign, two of these bear the same date of 1836.
All these half-sovereigns featured on the obverse the bare head of the King facing right, engraved by William Wyon(1795-1851), and on the reverse a garnished shield modelled and engraved by Jean Baptiste Merlen (1769-1850).
The half-sovereigns of William IV very seldom appear. 1834 (R2 M.Marsh), 1835 (S M.Marsh), 1836 (R2 M.Marsh), 1837 (R M.Marsh). However, the key coin of this small group is the 1836 half-sovereign with its obverse struck from a sixpence die (R5 M.Marsh).
The Reign of QUEEN VICTORIA (1837-1901) House of Hanover.
Born: 24 May 1819.
Accession: 20 June 1837.
Married: Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, 10 February 1840.
Coronation: Thursday 28 June 1838.
Children: four sons, five daughters.
Died: 22 January 1901, aged 81.
QUEEN VICTORIA, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1838-1901.
Queen Victoria (1819-1901), began her reign upon the death of her uncle on 20 June 1837. Many fine types and varieties of gold coinage were produced during Victoria's reign. Regarding the half-sovereign, three main types or designs were recognized during the period 1838-1901: The "Young Head", the "Jubilee Head" and the "Old Head" (Veiled Head).
The first gold currency half-sovereign for this reign was issued in 1838, bearing the " Young Head " design on the obverse and the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown on the reverse. Several types and varieties were issued with this design until 1885. From 1863 until 1880 inclusive the Royal Mint in London individually numbered the shield type reverse dies used to strike the currency half-sovereigns as a means of " quality control " in assessing the efficiency of use of the dies, and in tracing any weakness in the production process. Some of the dates in this period number over 100 individual dies alone. All these "Young Head" half-sovereigns are difficult to find in Mint state, especially the earliest dates.
The year of 1887 brought about the fiftieth anniversary of the Queen's accession and it was marked by the introduction of a special Jubilee coinage. The new bust of the Queen by J.E.Boehm replaced the Wyon effigy currently being used. The "Golden Jubilee" gold half-sovereign was struck in 1887, bearing on the obverse the bust of the Queen facing left, wearing a small crown, veiled and with ribbon and star. The reverse once more displays the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom within a garnished shield and surmounted by a royal crown. Four more currency issues of half-sovereigns (1890, 1891, 1892, 1893) were struck with the same " Jubilee Head " design, but no coins of this kind were struck for the years of 1888 or 1889. Mintage figures relating to the Royal Mint "Jubilee Head " gold half-sovereigns are very high as one would expect, and they do in fact reveal that well over twenty two million were struck for the period of issue.
In 1893 the final design of coinage known as the " Old Head " or " Veiled Head " type was introduced. This type featured on the obverse the bust of the Queen facing left, veiled and draped, and on the reverse the design of St. George mounted with streamer flowing from helmet, slaying the Dragon with sword. Nine issues of gold half-sovereigns were struck by the Royal Mint with this design (1893-1901), totaling mintage figures of around thirty million.
The Reign of KING EDWARD VII (1901-1910) House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.
Born: 9 November 1841.
Accession: 22 January 1901.
Married: Alexandra of Denmark 10 March 1863.
Coronation: Saturday, 9 August 1902.
Children: three sons, three daughters.
Died: 6 May 1910, aged 68.
KING EDWARD VII, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1902-1910.
King Edward VII (1841-1910) began his reign upon the death of Queen Victoria in January 1901, but no new coinage was struck during that year.
The first half-sovereign for Edward VII was struck in 1902, featuring the bust of the monarch on the obverse, and on the reverse the design of Saint George slaying the Dragon.
The Royal Mint continued to issue currency half-sovereigns during Edward's reign yearly until 1910.
Half-sovereigns for this reign were also struck at the Australian branch mints of Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.
The Reign of KING GEORGE V (1910-1936) House of Windsor.
Born: 3 June 1865.
Accession: 6 May 1910.
Married: Mary of Teck, 6 July 1893.
Coronation: Thursday, 22 June 1911, second Coronation as Emperor of India at the Delhi Durbar, Tuesday, 12 December 1911.
Children: five sons, one daughter.
Died: 20 January 1936, aged 70.
KING GEORGE V, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1911-1915.
King George V (1865-1936) succeeded to the throne upon the death of his father King Edward VII in May 1910. Several million gold coins were struck during his reign but few would be used for currency. The main reason for this was the Great War of 1914-1918, and the outbreak of this in August 1914 quickly saw the Government issue Treasury notes for one pound and ten shillings. The public were urged not to use gold and by 1915 gold had all but dissappeared from circulation in London. The Royal Mint struck currency half-sovereigns during George V reign for the years 1911 to 1915, all featuring on the obverse the bust of the King facing left and on the reverse the design of St.George slaying the Dragon.
Half-sovereigns continued to be issued for King George V reign and after 1915 by the Australian branch mints of Melbourne (1915), Perth (1911,1915,1918), Sydney (1911,1912,1914,1915,1916) and at the branch mint of Pretoria in South Africa (1925,1926).
The Reign of KING GEORGE VI (1936-1952) House of Windsor.
Born: 14 December 1895.
Accession: 11 December 1936. Married: Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, 26 April 1923.
Coronation: Wednesday, 12 May 1937.
Children: two daughters.
Died: 6 February 1952, aged 56.
KING GEORGE VI (1937-1952)
During this reign only proof half-sovereigns were struck by the Royal Mint as part of the four coin Coronation Proof Set (Mintage:5001).
The Reign of QUEEN ELIZABETH II (1952- ) House of Windsor.
Born: 21 April 1926.
Accession: 6 February 1952.
Married: Philip of Greece and Denmark, 20 November 1947.
Coronation: Tuesday, 2 June 1953.
Children: three sons, one daughter.
Celebrating her Diamond Jubilee Year 2012.
QUEEN ELIZABETH II, CURRENCY GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGNS 1982-DATE.
Queen Elizabeth II was born on 21 April 1926 and succeeded her father George VI after his death in 1952. She enjoys the longest reign of any monarch so far. Many fine types and varieties of gold coinage were issued during her reign including three different types of currency half-sovereigns.
The first type was issued only for the year 1982 as a bullion coin featuring on the obverse the young head of the Queen facing right and on the reverse the design of St.George slaying the Dragon.
The second type was struck in the year 2000 when the Royal Mint re-issued a bullion type gold half-sovereign and continued the issue yearly ever since. This second type carries the Rank-Broadley bust of the Queen and the reverse Pistrucci's St.George slaying the Dragon. In 2005 a special reverse issue was struck with a depiction of St.George, carrying a shield and a sword, slaying the dragon (Design by Timothy Noad).
The third type was introduced in 2015 and carries the Jody Clark bust of the Queen on the obverse and again the Pistrucci's St.George slaying the Dragon on the reverse.
During her reign three Anniversary issues were struck: The 2002 "Golden Jubilee", the 2012 "Diamond Jubilee" and the 2017 "200th anniversary of the modern gold sovereign and half-sovereign".
REFERENCES:
COINS OF ENGLAND & THE UNITED KINGDOM, 52nd Edition 2017, by SPINK.
THE COIN YEAR BOOK 2012, Edited by John W. Mussell.
THE GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN, 2nd Edition 2004, by MICHAEL A. MARSH.
A HISTORY OF THE SOVEREIGN, by Kevin Clancy. A Royal Mint Museum publication. 2nd Edition 2017.
THE SOVEREIGN, The world's most famous coin, by Daniel Fearon, 2001.
This Collection contains coins from Pedigree collections like :
Terner
Erwin Warth
Heyleigh
Thos.H.Law
D.Moore
Sincona
Richlyn
Caranett
Lake County
Kairos
Ted Reams
Jon Blyth
Hades.
Set Goals
My main collecting interest has been on the modern coinage of Cyprus 1879-1949.
During this period Cyprus was under British Administration and the "piastre coinage" made its appearance in 1879. The copper piastre became the unit of currency and was fixed at the rate of 180 to the British gold sovereign. The gold sovereign became the standard measure of value and remained the coin of unlimited legal tender throughout the period from 1878-1960. During the reign of Queen Victoria, the gold half-sovereign was also legal tender, demonetized though from the 1st May 1901. Due to this relation, after completion of the "Cyprus Piastre Coinage Collection", the collection of sovereigns and half-sovereigns became a strong challenge. So, fifteen years ago I started to build up this collection of gold half-sovereigns with the goal to obtain high grade examples for every year since their first issue in 1817, buying always the best that could be afforded. As the quality of the individual coins determines the strength and value of a collection, constant emphasis was given on quality and condition rarity. For some rarer and scarcer pieces though I had to compromise condition in order to fill the empty slot, hoping to upgrade as opportunity permits. However there are a few ultra rarities in these series: 1845 (R4), 1862 (R6), 1879 (R4); not a single example of these appeared in a decent condition for many years!
It is true that in general half-sovereigns, especially those of the 19th Century, have become a great deal more difficult to find in uncirculated condition, even more difficult than finding uncirculated gold sovereigns. Despite this, it is really a challenge to hunt, to recognize opportunities and be prepared to strike when a piece comes up in order to fill up the empty slots with high grade coins or upgrade certain dates. "There is no substitution for quality".
Although the collection is still a work in progress, contains examples from all the Reigns. All coins are NGC-certified and many of them are "Top Pop" or single finest graded, quite a few conditionally rare.
Actually 2017 is more exciting because is the 200th anniversary of the "modern" half-sovereign which was first struck in 1817. During this year I managed to fill up some empty slots with new entries and make a few upgrades, so the collection reached an 81% completion. I also added, as a "guest star", a 1937 PF 66 Ultra Cameo half-sovereign of King George VI. During his reign only proof half-sovereigns were struck by the Royal Mint as part of the four coin Coronation Proof Set, with a mintage of only 5001.
By February 2024 the Collection reached 92% completion.
RECENT ENTRIES:
1844 MS66, ( January 2017 ).
1849 MS65, ( January 2017 ).
2005 MS66 ( May 2017 ).
2006 MS69 ( May 2017 ).
2007 MS66 ( May 2017 ).
2008 MS66 ( May 2017 ).
2009 MS69 ( May 2017 ).
1865 AU58 ( June 2017 ).
1874 AU55 ( June 2017 ).
1880 Die Number AU58 ( June 2017 ).
2016 MS69 ( June 2017).
2017 MS65 ( Self-submitted, June 2017 ).
1820 MS64+ ( Crossed over from PCGS, June 2017 ).
1853 MS63+ ( NCS submission and conservation, July 2017 ).
1860 MS63 ( September 2017 ).
2010 MS64 DPL ( October 2017 ).
2011 MS65 DPL ( October 2017 ).
2012 MS69 DPL ( October 2017 ).
2018 MS69 DPL ( March 2018 )
1857 MS64 ( April 2018 )
1838 MS64 ( September 2018 )
1845 VF35 ( Self-submitted, October 2018 )
2013 MS68 ( Self-submitted, October 2018 ).
1850 MS63 ( October 2018 ).
1858 MS64 ( February 2019 ).
1859 MS64 ( April 2020 ).
1866 MS63 ( Self-submitted, October 2020 ).
1870 MS62 ( Self-submitted, October 2020 ).
2015 MS70DPL ( Self-submitted, October 2020 ).
2019 MS69DPL ( Self-submitted, October 2020 ).
2020 MS69DPL ( Self-submitted, October 2020 ).
1841 MS64+ ( November 2020 ).
1836 MS65 ( January 2021 ).
1851 MS65+ ( January 2021 ).
1848/7 MS64 ( February 2021 ).
2021 MS69DPL ( Self-submitted, March 2021 ).
2022 MS70DPL Platinum Jubilee ( June 2022 ).
2022 MS70DPL Memorial ( November 2022 ).
1848 VF25 ( February 2024 ).
RECENT UPGRADES:
1885 MS63 ^ MS64 ( March 2017 ).
1884 MS62 ^ MS63 ( March 2017 ).
1828 MS61 ^ MS64 ( April 2017 ).
1861 AU58 ^ MS62 ( May 2017 ).
1896 AU58 ^ MS62 ( May 2017 ).
1837 AU55 ^ MS61 ( June 2017 ).
1885/3 AU53 ^ AU55, ( June 2017 ).
1880 No Die Number AU55 ^ AU58 ( July 2017 ).
1902 MS64 ^ MS65 ( September 2017 ).
1873 MS61 ^ MS63 ( January 2018 ).
1890 MS62 ^ MS64 ( April 2018 ).
1835 MS62 ^ MS64+ ( April 2018 ).
1893 MS65 ^ MS66 ( Crossed over from PCGS, June 2018 ).
2017 MS65 ^ MS69DPL ( September 2018 ).
1861 MS62 ^ MS63 ( October 2018 ).
1837 MS61 ^ MS65 ( November 2018 ).
1911 MS64 ^ MS65 ( December 2018 ).
1846 MS63 ^ MS64 ( January 2019 ).
1865 AU58 ^ MS64 ( February 2019 ).
1907 MS64 ^ MS66 ( April 2019 ).
1901 MS64 ^ MS65 ( April 2019 ).
1885/3 AU55 ^ AU58 ( June 2019 ).
1842 MS62 ^ MS64 ( August 2019 ).
1891 AU58 ^ MS64 ( December 2019 ).
1856 MS63 ^ MS64 ( May 2020 ).
1861 MS63 ^ MS65 ( May 2020 ).
1899 MS62 ^ MS65 ( May 2020 ).
1825 MS64 ^ MS64+ ( August 2020 ).
2002 MS64 ^ MS69DPL ( September 2020 ).
1896 MS62 ^ MS64 ( October 2020 ).
1821 MS64 ^ MS64* ( October 2020 ).
1818 MS63 ^ MS64 ( January 2021 ).
2013 MS68 ^ MS69DPL ( March 2021 ).
1876 MS62 ^ MS63 ( August 2021 ).
1860 MS63 ^ MS65+ ( August 2021 ).
1911 MS65 ^ MS66 ( October 2021 ).
1880 AU58 ^ MS63 ( October 2021 ).
1914 MS66 ^ MS67 ( July 2022 ).
1982 MS66 ^ MS67 ( September 2022 ).
1817 MS64 ^ MS65 ( November 2022 ).
1834 MS64 ^ MS65+ ( November 2022 ).
1869 MS63 ^ MS65 ( January 2023 ).
1867 MS62 ^ MS63 ( August 2023 ).
1893 JH MS61 ^ MS62 ( October 2023 ).
2011 MS68DPL ^ MS69DPL ( November 2023 ).
Denoted by a + symbol appearing after the grade, the plus designation indicates that a coin is of superior quality for the grade and that it approaches the next technical grade level. In numismatics, in addition to plus, several terms are used interchangeably to indicate this, including premium quality, PQ and high-end.
Star Designation identifies coins with exceptional eye appeal, including vibrant, colorful toning or intense luster.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1817 G.britain Ex ERWIN WARTH COLLECTION
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NGC MS 65
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2012 NGC AWARD : Best World Set
Competitive Set : GREAT BRITAIN, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN TYPE SET 1817-2017, Circulation Issue
NGC Expert Comments:
The presentation of this handsome collection begins with a detailed history of both the monarchs depicted on the half sovereign and details of the coins themselves. This whets one’s appetite for the listing of coins to follow, and these pieces do not disappoint. All fourteen types coined from 1817 to the present are included, each one a lovely Mint State specimen. Important pieces include 1821 grading NGC MS 64, 1835 (MS 62), 1852 (MS 65) and 2001 (MS 69).
GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE III GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1817
(Marsh 400; S 3786).
OBVERSE: Laureated head of King George III facing right. Date below.
REVERSE: An angular shield surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon surmounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield.
ENGRAVER: William Wyon.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2.080.197.
RATING: C (M.Marsh).
1817 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65
An excellent example of the very first date of the New Coinage half-sovereign.
Brightly shimmering luster brings a full force of life to the surfaces of this impressive gem, with a clear expression of detail throughout the design indicating a bold, precision strike.
NGC: Pop 4 with one grading higher.
Ex Sonntag Auction # 37, Lot 192, Stuttgart 28 November 2022.
Provenance :
Sothby and Co. London.
Erwin Warth Collection, January 1971.
Erwin Warth (1912-1996) was a German collector, founder of the Erwin Warth Organization of "Flora and Fauna" in Stuttgart Germany. In 1995, Erwin received the EURONATUR award "Partner of the European Natural Heritage" for safeguarding large landscapes for people and nature.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1818 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT.BRITAIN, GEORGE III GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1818 (Marsh 401; S 3786).
OBVERSE: Laureated head of King George III facing right. Date below.
REVERSE: An angular shield surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon surmounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield.
ENGRAVER: William Wyon.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,030,286
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1818 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4486061-008
Immensely lustrus, flashy reflectivity decorating the fields, these holding clearly contoured
and sharp devices decorated in golden mint frost.
An excellent example of this rare half-sovereign.
Ex Heritage Auction # 3089, lot # 32749, 22 January 2021.
Bright and beautiful with sharp strike and booming luster.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1820 G.britain GEORGE III, Ex TERNER COLLECTION (M.Marsh 402)
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE III GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1820
(Marsh 402; S 3786).
OBVERSE: Laureated head of King George III facing right. Date below.
REVERSE: An angular shield surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon surmounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield.
ENGRAVER: William Wyon.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 35,043
RATING: R2 (M.Marsh).
1820 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS64+
NGC 2814835-001
A beautiful and very choice UNC coin having unending luster that cartwheels the surfaces in a GEM fashion and giving more than a little eye appeal. The King's portrait is as bold as can be and the reverse shield retains an as-struck appearance.
Pedigree : Jacob Y. Terner
Dr Jacob Y. Terner (1934-2017) born in NY City. A collector with an instinct for value and trained his discerning eye at various times on fine art, coins, stamps rare books, hunting shotguns e.t.c. He owned one of the most comprehensive and valuable collections of sovereigns and half-sovereigns. Auctioned in May 2003.
Ex Heritage Auction # 3014, Rosemont, April 2011, lot 24149.
Crossed over from PCGS. ( 21474761 )
Single finest NGC and PCGS.
EVENTS IN HISTORY
www.onthisday.com/events/date/1820
January 27, 1820 : Russian Antarctic expedition led by Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen and Mikhail Lazarev discover the continent of Antarctica.
February 6, 1820 : US population announced at 9,638,453, African Americans 1,771,656 (18.4%).
April 8, 1820 : The famous ancient Greek statue, Venus de Milo is discovered on the Aegean island of Milos.
One of the star attractions, along with the Mona Lisa, of the Louvre Museum in Paris. The Venus de Milo, named after the island where she was rediscovered in 1820, is thought to have been made by the sculptor Alexandros of Antioch in the 2nd century BC.
Although most often held to be a depiction of Aphrodite, the ancient goddess of Love, she may also be Amphitrite, the Greek goddess of the sea. Carved in two main sections in the Hellenistic style, the statue is famous for its missing arms in addition to its beauty.
June 28, 1820 : Tomato is proven to be non-poisonous by Colonel Robert Gibbon eating a tomato on steps of courthouse in Salem, New Jersey.
August 1, 1820 : London's Regent's Canal opens.
November 7, 1820 : James Monroe re-elected 5th US president.
December 15, 1820 : 1st General pharmacopoeia in US published, Boston.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1821 G.britain GEORGE IV, Ex HEYLEIGH COLLECTION (M.Marsh 403)
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NGC MS 64
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GT.BRITAIN, GEORGE IV Laureate Head (Type I), GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1821
(Marsh 403; S 3802).
The first half-sovereign for the reign of George IV was issued in 1821. It carried a magnificent laureate head bust of the King, and its reverse featured an equally impressive design that displayed the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom beautifully garnished and surmounted by a crown.This coin is a splendid example of both engraving and design by Pistrucci. It was quickly withdrawn because of its likeness to the current sixpence, and possibly melted down. That explains the high rarity of the coin (R5 M.Marsh).
OBVERSE: The King's bust facing left, laureate, tie with loop and two ends, hair short and bare neck. B.P. in small letters below truncation standing for Benedetto Pistrucci.
REVERSE: A heavily garnished shield surmounted by the royal crown. The shield surrounded by roses thistles and shamrocks.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 231.238.
RARITY: R5 (M.Marsh).
1821 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64*
NGC 5879380-004
Description by SPINK at sale, 15/09/2020 : Proof Half-Sovereign, 1821, by Pistrucci [EXCEPTIONAL EYE APPEAL] .
George IV (1820-1830), Proof Half-Sovereign, 1821, by Pistrucci, laureate head left, rev. crowned floral-garnished shield, edge milled, 4.01g, 7h (Murdoch III, 384[a]; Douglas-Morris 147; King - [cf. 203]; W&R 244 [R3]; Schneider II, - [cf. 633]; cf. Marsh 403; cf. MCE 482; Spink 3802), brilliant, much as struck, rare.
Conditionally rare and finest known. Star-designated with an overall amazing eye-appeal.
Ex Spink Auction # 20005 - The Stratos Sale of Spectacular English Gold Coins, Lot 53, 15 September 2020.
Provenance : Hayleigh Collection
NGC : Single finest.
EVENTS IN HISTORY
www.onthisday.com/events/date/1821
February 12, 1821 : Mercantile Library of City of NY opens.
February 21,1821 : Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire begins.
March 25, 1821 : The Greek revolution against the Ottoman Turks is officially declared,
with hostilities having started two months earlier.
April 10, 1821 : Patriarch Gregory V of Constantinople is hanged by the Turks from the main gate of the Patriarchate, his body thrown into the Bosphorus
May 8, 1821 : Greek War of Independence: Greeks defeat the Turks in Gravia.
May 12, 1821 : The first major battle of the Greek War of Independence against the Turks occurs in Valtetsi.
September 23, 1821 : Fall of Tripolitsa, Greek forces massacre 30,000 Turks during Greek War of Independence.
July 28, 1821 : Peru declares independence from Spain (National Day).
August 4, 1821 : 1st edition of American magazine "The Saturday Evening Post"
September 15, 1821 : Act of Independence of Central America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras & Nicaragua declare their independence from the Spanish Empire.
November 28, 1821 : Panama declares independence from Spain.
December 1, 1821: Santo Domingo (Dominican Rep) proclaims independence from Spain.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1823 G.britain
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NGC MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE IV Laureated head (Type II) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1823 (Marsh 404; S 3803).
OBVERSE: The King's bust facing left, laurate, tie with loop and two ends, hair short and bare neck. B.P. in small letters below truncation standing for Benedetto Pistrucci.
REVERSE: Garnished shield, surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon surmounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield. The shield surrounded by roses thistles and shamrocks.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 224,280
RARITY: R2 (M.Marsh).
1823 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65
NGC 1910001-005
A stunning example of this rare date with the detail throughout the King's portrait as bold as can be, and the reverse shield retaining an as-struck appearance. The unending luster cartwheels the surfaces in a GEM fashion.
ex Baldwin Auction # 87, lot No. 1343, 7 May 2014.
NGC: Pop 3 with none grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1824 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE IV Laureate head (Type II), GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1824
(Marsh 405; S 3803).
OBVERSE: The King's bust facing left, laureate, tie with loop and two ends, hair short and bare neck. B.P. in small letters below truncation standing for Benedetto Pistrucci.
REVERSE: Garnished shield, surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon surmounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield. The shield surrounded by roses thistles and shamrocks.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 591,538
RARITY: S (M.Marsh).
1824 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 1523697-018
A strong example of this type.
Very solid and attractive, with wonderful lustrus, mark free, surfaces.
ex A. M. Holds Numismatist, Norhampton, England, purchased 11 January 2011.
NGC: Pop 6 with one grading higher.
PHOTO
KING GEORGE IV
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1825 G.britain LAUREATE BUST
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NGC MS 64
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GREAT BRITAIN, GEORGE IV Laureate head (Type II), 1825 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 406; S 3803).
OBVERSE: The King's bust facing left, laureate, tie with loop and two ends, hair short and bare neck. B.P. in small letters below truncation standing for Benedetto Pistrucci.
REVERSE: Garnished shield, surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon surmounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield. The shield surrounded by roses thistles and shamrocks.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 591,538
RARITY: S (M.Marsh).
1825 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64+
NGC 4931648-005
Decidedly on the precipice of GEM preservation, displaying a dynamic and overlapping golden luster that caresses the struck features and simultaneously preserves a distinctive cartwheel effect.
Scarce in this grade, and the single finest example seen by NGC to-date.
Ex Heritage Auction # 3085, Lot # 31635, 7 August 2020.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1826 G.britain Ex TERNER COLLECTION
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE IV, Bare head (Type III), 1826 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN (Marsh 407; S-3804A).
S-3804A : With extra tuft of hair to left ear and much heavier border than S-3804.
OBVERSE: Bare head of the King facing left.
REVERSE: Garnished shield, surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 344,830
RARITY: R (M.Marsh).
1826 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 63
NGC 2783529-001
A choice uncirculated example of this Type 3 half-sovereign, with bold strike and proof-like surfaces.
Provenance given on the grading insert as having been from the Jacob Y. Terner Collection.
Dr Jacob Y. Terner (1934-2017) born in NY City. A collector with an instinct for value and trained his discerning eye at various times on fine art, coins, stamps rare books, hunting shotguns e.t.c. He owned one of the most comprehensive and valuable collections of sovereigns and half-sovereigns. Auctioned in March 2003.
ex Heritage Auction # 3014, Rosemont, April 2011, lot 24167. Crossed over from PCGS.
Tempted to sell and upgrade this coin a few times, but because of the beauty of its prooof-like appearance and Pedigree, I kept it within the collection.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1827 G.britain
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NGC MS 62
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GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE IV, Bare head (Type III), 1827 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 408; S 3804).
OBVERSE: Bare head of the King facing left.
REVERSE: Garnished shield, surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 492,014
RARITY: S (M.Marsh).
1827 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 62
NGC 2780125-001
A scarse specimen of this type.
Very solid and attractive for the grade, with good strike and considerable remaining luster.
ex GK Coins Ltd, London, Mayfair. Purchased 1 October 2012.
Self submitted.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1828 G.britain Ex Thos. H. Law COLLECTION
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, GEORGE IV, Bare head (Type III), 1828 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 409; S 3804)
OBVERSE: The King's head facing left bare. Date below truncation.
REVERSE: Garnished shield, surmounted by the royal crown, bearing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom. The Hanoverian arms within an escutcheon sur mounted by the royal crown in the centre of the shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled,
MINTAGE: 1.224.754,
RARITY: N (M.Marsh).
1828 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4238677-006
A well struck, gleaming example, with full bright luster. Three-year type and conditionally rare.
NGC Pop 1 with only two pieces certified finer by NGC and PCGS combined.
ex Heritage Auction # 3054, Lot number 30841, Chicago, 8 April 2017.
ex T. H. Law Collection.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1834 G.britain Ex ERWIN WARTH COLLECTION
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NGC MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, WILLIAM IV, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1834
(Marsh 410, S-3830).
OBVERSE: Bare head of King facing right, engraved by William Wyon (1795-1851).
REVERSE: A garnished shield modeled and engraved by Jean Baptiste Merlen (1769-1850).
DIAMETER: 17.9 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994g
EDGE: Milled.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MINTAGE: 133.899.
RATING: R2 (M.Marsh).
1834 HALF-SOVEREIGN
William's first currency half sovereign was not issued until 1834. There are important facts that should be mentioned regarding this superb half-sovereign.
First the obverse was engraved by William Wyon (1795-1851) from a superb bust of William IV by Sir Francis Chantrey (1781-1841). The reverse features a beautifully garnished shield modeled and engraved by Jean Baptise Merlen (1769-1850).
It should be noted that this particular half-sovereign has a diameter of only 17.9mm ; this was considerably smaller than any other half-sovereign previously struck during the modern era, and they in fact measured 19.4mm. It was though the same weight and fineness as previous issues (3.994 g and 22 carats).
Finally, though a Treasury order dated 14 April 1835 requested that the half-sovereign should be struck at a reduced size, the only half-sovereigns of this kind are those dated 1834, but they were though the same weight and fineness as previous issues ( 61.637 grains and 916.66 fineness ). Mint Ledgers record that half-sovereigns with a value of 60,000 pounds or 120,000 coins dated 1834 had been recalled and melted, and this was probably as a result of complaints relating to their being very similar to the seven shilling pieces. This is also another reason why 1834 dated half-sovereigns are rated R2 and therefore very sought after.
1834 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65+
NGC 6384516-040
A conditionally very rare and unbeatable example for its quality and eye appeal.
Visually stunning, this superb GEM lacks any significant signs of contact and with surfaces produced by a firm strike. Slightly proof-like with gleaming luster and lovely gold color.
The reverse design is truly enviable in its boldness and intense luster, retaining an as-struck appearance.
NGC: Pop 1 with none grading higher.
Positioned in the top of NGC's certified population, a premium gem is a unity of natural and manmade virtuosity owing to the plus designation.
Ex Sonntag Auction # 37, Stuttgart, Lot 210, 28 November 2022.
Provenance :
Glendining and Co. Ltd, London.
Erwin Warth Collection. July 1970.
Erwin Warth (1912-1996) was a German Collector, founder of the Erwin Warth Organization of "Flora and Fauna" in Stuttgart Germany. In 1995, Erwin received the EURONATUR award "Partner of the European Natural Heritage" for safeguarding large landscapes for people and nature.
EVENTS IN HISTORY
www.onthisday.com/events/date/1834
Feb. 18 1834 : 1st US labor newspaper, "The Man", published, NYC.
Mar. 18 1834 : 1st railroad tunnel in US completed, in Pennsylvania (275 m long).
Apr. 3 1834 : The generals in the Greek War of Independence stand trial for treason.
May 26 1834 : Portuguese Civil war ends, Dom Miguel capitulates.
June 14, 1834 : Sandpaper patented by Isaac Fischer Jr, Springfield, Vermont.
June 21, 1834 : Historic invention; American inventor and businessman Cyrus McCormick patents the reaping machine.
July 5 1834 : Provisional government forms in Oregon Country.
August 1 1834 : Slavery Abolition Act 1833 comes into effect, abolishes slavery throughout the British Empire.
Slavery Abolition Act, (1833), in British history, act of Parliament that abolished slavery in most British colonies, freeing more than 800,000 enslaved Africans in the Caribbean and South Africa as well as a small number in Canada. It received Royal Assent on August 28, 1833, and took effect on August 1, 1834.
Oct 16 1834 : Much of the ancient structures of the Palace of Westminster (parliament) in London is burnt down.
Nov 14 1834 : Mathematical Physicist and Engineer William Thomson enters Glasgow University at 10 yrs 4 months.
Dec 3 1834 : First US dental society organized (NY).Positioned in the top 4% of NGC's certified population, a premium gem bathed in a tasteful phoenix orange tone that animates that superbly rendered devices, a unity of natural and manmade virtuosity owing to the plus designation.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1835 G.britain NORMAL SIZE
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, WILLIAM IV GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1835
(Marsh 411,S-3831).
OBVERSE: Bare head of King William IV facing right, engraved by William Wyon (1795-1851).
REVERSE: Garnished shield modeled and engraved by Jean Baptiste Merlen (1769-1850).
DIAMETER: 19.4mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994g
EDGE: Milled.
FINENESS: 22 Carat.
MINTAGE: 772,554
RATING: S (M.Marsh)
1835 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64+
NGC 4625438-013
A stunning example of this scarce date, with strong strike and spectacular full sun-yellow luster.
By all measures a show-stopping selection that edges very nearly on Gem Mint State preservation. Denoted by a + symbol appearing after the grade, the plus designation indicates that a coin is of superior quality for the grade and that it approaches the quality requirements for the next technical grade level. In addition to their superior technical merit, coins receiving a Plus ( + ) must have above average eye appeal. In numismatics, in addition to plus, several terms are used interchangeably to indicate this, including premium quality, PQ and high-end.
Ex Heritage Auction #3064, Chicago IL, Lot #31033, 21 April 2018.
Events in history 1835: www.onthisday.com/events/date/1835
Jan 8 1835 : US national debt is $0 for the first and only time in history
January 30 1835 : Richard Lawrence misfires at President Andrew Jackson in Washington, D.C. in 1st attempted assassination of a US President
April 18 1835 : Election of Interest, William Lamb (Lord Melbourne) becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
after Robert Peel resigns out of frustration.
May 6 1835 : James Gordon Bennett Sr. publishes the first issue of the New York Herald (price 1 cent).
May 20 1835 : Otto is named the first modern king of Greece.
June 19 1835 : New Orleans gives US government Jackson Square to be used as a mint.
July 29 1835 : 1st sugar plantation in Hawaii begins.
Aug. 30 1835 : Melbourne, Australia is founded.
Oct. 2 1835 : Battle of Gonzales fought between Texan settlers and Mexican forces. First engagement of the Texas revolution.
Non. 23 1835 : Henry Burden patents horseshoe manufacturing machine (Troy, NY).
Dec. 3 1835 : First US mutual fire insurance company issues first policy (Rhode Island).
Dec 16 1835 : Fire consumes over 600 buildings in NYC.
Dec 29 1835 : Treaty of New Echota is signed between the US government and representatives of a minority Cherokee political faction to cede all lands of the Cherokee east of the Mississippi River to the United States.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1836 G.britain WILLIAM IV, Ex Jon Blyth Collection (M.Marsh 412)
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NGC MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, WILLIAM IV GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1836
(Marsh 412, S-3831).
OBVERSE: Bare head of King William IV facing right, engraved by William Wyon (1795-1851).
REVERSE: Garnished shield modeled and engraved by Jean Baptiste Merlen (1769-1850).
DIAMETER: 19.4mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994g
EDGE: Milled.
FINENESS: 22 Carat.
MINTAGE: 146,865
RATING: R2 (M.Marsh)
1836 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65
NGC 5879652-001
A superb GEM of this extremely rare issue.
Unsurpassed in certified quality with exceptional eye appeal and technical proficiency, this incredibly vibrant specimen features blooming luster and design motifs that have been rendered with an exacting strike.
NGC : Very likely the finest-known and only mint-state of a total of 5 specimens seen, the next closest graded example of this date is an AU58.
One of the key dates of the complete half-sovereign collection 1817-2022.
Purchased 11 January 2021.
NGC : Price Guide Plate Coin.
EVENTS IN HISTORY
www.onthisday.com/events/date/1836
February 23, 1836 : Battle of the Alamo. Alamo besieged for 13 days until March 6 by Mexican army under General Santa Anna; entire garrison eventually killed.
February 25, 1836 : Historic Invention; Samuel Colt patents first multi-shot revolving-cylinder revolver, enabling the firearm to be fired multiple times without reloading.
March 2, 1836 : Event of Interest. Republic of Texas declares independence from Mexico in Columbia.
April 20, 1836 : Territory of Wisconsin created.
Jun 15, 1836 : Arkansas becomes 25th state of the Union.
July 1, 1836 : Event of Interest; US President Andrew Jackson announces to Congress bequest by James Smithson of 100,000 gold sovereigns to found institution in Washington.
July 29, 1836 : Inauguration of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
August 17, 1836 : British parliament accepts registration of births, marriages and deaths.
September 5, 1836 : Election of Interest; Sam Houston elected President of the Republic of Texas.
December 7, 1836 : Election of Interest; Martin Van Buren elected the 8th President of the United States.
December 28, 1836 : Spain recognizes the independence of Mexico.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1837 G.britain
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NGC MS 65
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GT.BRITAIN, WILLIAM IV, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1837 (Marsh 413, S-3831).
OBVERSE: Bare head of King William IV facing right, engraved by William Wyon (1795-1851).
REVERSE: Garnished shield modeled and engraved by Jean Baptiste Merlen (1769-1850).
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
EDGE: Milled.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MINTAGE: 160.207.
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1837 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65
NGC 2829223-001
Superb GEM example of this extremely rare date, with brilliant satin luster cloaking the entire planchet, and with every detail sharply rendered.
Fully deserving of its premium gem designation, an unbeatable example for its quality and eye appeal.
DNW Auction, November 2018. Self-submitted, December 2018.
NGC : Price Guide Plate Coin.
Events in history 1837 : www.onthisday.com/events/date/1837
Jan. 22 1837 : Earthquake in southern Syria kills thousands.
Feb 13 1837 : Riot in New York due to a combination of poverty and increase in the cost of flour.
Feb. 25 1837 : 1st US electric printing press patented by Thomas Davenport.
Mar 3 1837 : US President Andrew Jackson and Congress recognize the Republic of Texas.
Mar 4 1837 : Martin Van Buren inaugurated as the 8th President of the United States.
Mar 24 1837 : Canada gives its black citizens the right to vote.
May 3 1837 : The University of Athens is founded.
May 6 1837 : US blacksmith John Deere creates the first steel plough in Grand Detour, Illinois.
May 10 1837 : Panic of 1837: New York City banks fail, and unemployment reaches record levels.
May 31 1837 : Astor Hotel opens in NYC, it later becomes the Waldorf-Astoria.
June 17 1837 : Charles Goodyear obtains his 1st rubber patent.
June 20 1837 : Queen Victoria at 18 ascends British throne following death of uncle King William IV.
She rules for 63 years till 1901.
Historical Context : Opening of Euston Station
July 20 1837 : Euston railway station opens in London as the terminus of the London and Birmingham Railway (L&BR), the city's 1st intercity railway station.
The original Euston railway Station was London's first mainline station and the first station to connect London with another city. Planned by George and Robert Stephenson, it was designed by Philip Hardwick and opened in 1837.
When the station was first proposed its land was still farmland but it quickly became one of London's busiest stations. It was controversially redeveloped in the 1960s and its original entrance portico, the Doric Euston Arch, dismantled.
July 27 1837 : US Mint opens in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Sep. 1837 : Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young co-found a "stationery and fancy goods emporium" in New York City, later renamed in 1853 as "Tiffany & Co."
Nov. 15 1837 : Isaac Pitman introduces his shorthand system of writing, Pitman shorthand.
Dec. 29 1837 : Steam-powered threshing machine patented in Winthrop, Maine.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1838 G.britain VICTORIA
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1838
(Marsh 414; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 273,341
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1838 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4692554-004
The rare first date of Victoria's Half-sovereign in an elite near-Gem grade.
Very well struck from fresh dies, with every detail of Victoria's portrait razor-sharp and bold.
Intensely lustrous, an eye-catching bright yellow gold piece which has escaped any circulation or significant contact whatsoever for the last 180 years.
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Great Britain GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2 SOV 1841
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PCGS MS 64
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BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1841
(Marsh 415, KM735, S-3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 508,835
RATING: R2 (M.Marsh).
1841 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64+
PCGS 17231941
Admirably toned over, lending a matte-like finish to the well-kept surfaces, which reveal no meaningful distractions. Scarce in this quality and exceeded in grade by only a single specimen, certified MS65 by NGC.
PCGS : Single finest.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1842 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1842
(Marsh 416; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2,223,352
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1842 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4842688-014
A nice example of this Victoria's Type A1 half-sovereign.
Boldly struck with satiny surfaces.
NGC Pop 4, none grading higher.
Ex Atlas Numismatics, August 2019.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1844 G.britain VICTORIA YOUNG HEAD (Small), Ex D.MOORE COLLECTION (M.Marsh 418)
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NGC MS 66
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2015 NGC AWARD : Best Presented Set
Competitive Set : GREAT BRITAIN, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1838-1901, Circulation Issue, (VICTORIA)
NGC Expert Comments:
This collection features the gold half sovereign (ten shillings) series of Queen Victoria, who still holds the record as longest-reigning British monarch. The owner presents a history of the sovereign and its half unit as coins of the realm, as well as a biography of Victoria herself. Each coin is illustrated and described fully, including it aesthetic qualities and provenance, when known. While the collection is still a work in progress, some of its current highlights include 1847 (NGC MS 64), 1852 (NGC MS 65), 1863 without die number (NGC MS 64) and 1883 (NGC MS 64).
GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1844
(Marsh 418; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINT: Royal Mint
MINTAGE: 1,127,007
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1844 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 66
NGC 2062769-007
A tremendously alluring example of this Victoria's Type A1 half-sovereign. This superb GEM reveals impeccable detail up to the highest point, with the whole of the surfaces sheathed in silk and a layer of anticked patination that delicately covers both sides. The portrait of Victoria is outstanding, with each wave of her hair fully rendered and crisp, and a quick rotation reveals ample reflectivity that shimmers throughout the fields. The reverse design is truly enviable in its boldness and intense luster, retaining an as-struck appearance. Choice so fine, and in a certified realm of its own making.
Definitely this coin is the crown jewel of this collection, for its pedigree, its quality and condition rarity.
Pedigree : D. Moore Collection. Assembled over four decades, the collector relied on atypical but precise criteria. To be considered for the collection, each coin needed to be the very best quality available for the issue and possess exceptional eye appeal. The results of his connoisseurship are remarkable in that each coin in the collection can be appreciated individually for its beauty and rarity.
Pedigreed to this world class collection adds to allure of this high grade piece.
NGC: One of the most significant condition rarity half-sovereigns; the sole finest example certified by full two grades higher than the runner-up examples.
NGC : Price Guide Plate Coin.
Ex. Heritage Auction # 3051, New York, 9 January 2017, lot 32195.
EVENTS IN HISTORY
www.onthisday.com/events/date/1844
February 27, 1844: Dominican Republic gains independence from Haiti (National Day).
June 6, 1844 : Event of Interest; Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) formed by George Williams in London.
June 15, 1844 : Historic Invention; Charles Goodyear patents the vulcanization of rubber.
September 28, 1844 : Oscar I of Sweden-Norway is crowned king of Sweden.
November 6, 1844 : Spain grants Dominican Republic independence.
December 4, 1844 : Election of Interest; James Knox Polk elected 11th US President.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1845 G.britain
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NGC VF 35
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1845
(Marsh 419; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINT: Royal Mint
MINTAGE: 887,526
RATING: R3 (M.Marsh).
1845 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN VF35
NGC 2827523-001
An extremely rare coin indeed!
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1846 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1846
(Marsh 420; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,063,928
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1846 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 2779081-010
An exceptional example of this Victoria's Type A1 half-sovereign.
Boldly struck with clean surfaces and blazing luster.
NGC: Pop 1, second finest.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1847 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1847
(Marsh 421; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 928,656
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1847 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 3704320-003
Another exceptional example of this Victoria's Type A1 half-sovereign.
Choice uncirculated with lively cartwheel lustre, bold strike and clean surfaces. Rare thus.
* It is noted in the Terner collection sale that it took Dr Terner 20 years to find a top-grade 1847 Half-sovereign.
Ex Ira & Larry Goldberg Auction #75, lot 3316, 25 September 2013.
NGC: Single finest of only two been certified.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1848 G.britain SINCONA COLLECTION
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NGC VF 25
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1848
(Marsh 422B , S-3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: Not Known.
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1848 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN VF25
2144285-023
Rare coin in low grade though.
Ex Sincona Collection.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1848/7 G.britain Ex RICHLYN COLLECTION
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1848/7
(Marsh 422A , S-3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: Not Known.
RATING: R4 (M.Marsh).
1848/7 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4219982-001
A glistering example with classic yellow-gold surfaces and a few minor condition issues
that preclude the GEM designation.
Extremely rare 1848 variety ( R4 ). Overdate 8 over 7.
The overdate is readily apparent, even to the unaided eye, and adds another layer of
interest to this already alluring specimen.
M.Marsh, Second Edition 2004, pages 46 and 47, Plates 9 and 10 ( Pictures of the overdate ).
Conditionally rare and scarce at this level of preservation.
NGC: Single finest.
From the RichLyn collection.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1849 G.britain Ex D.MOORE COLLECTION
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NGC MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF- SOVEREIGN 1849
(Marsh 423; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 845,112
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1849 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65
NGC 2062940-004
Outstanding coin, one of the rarer Victoria issues in GEM condition with none certified finer by NGC or PCGS.
Resplendent and choice, with classically toned golden surfaces and full luster that easily gleams from across the fields. Rather bold in strike and visually engaging at every turn, with undeniable eye appeal.
From the D.Moore Collection. Assembled over four decades, the collector relied on atypical but precise criteria. To be considered for the collection, each coin needed to be the very best quality available for the issue and possess exceptional eye appeal. The results of his connoisseurship are remarkable in that each coin in the collection can be appreciated individually for its beauty and rarity.
NGC: A conditional rarity, the sole finest example certified by full two grades higher than the runner-up examples.
Ex. Heritage Signature Auction # 3051, New York, January 2017, lot 32197.
NGC : Single finest.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1850 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF- SOVEREIGN 1850
(Marsh 424; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 179,275
RATING: R3 (M.Marsh).
1850 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 63
NGC 3925701-106
A beautiful coin with the detail throughout the Queen's portrait as bold as can be
and the reverse shield retaining an as-struck appearance. The whole of the surfaces both sides covered with shimmering luster.
One of the key coins of the collection.
NGC Pop 1 with one grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1851 G.britain
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PCGS MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF- SOVEREIGN 1851
(Marsh 425; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 773,575
RATING: S (M.Marsh).
1851 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65+
PCGS Gold Shield 27942078
An absolute GEM, features a solid strike and immense luster radiating throughout.
Highest graded across both NGC and PCGS.
Stacks&Bowers Auction - Section A, Lot # 20321, 15 January 2021.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1852 G.britain
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NGC MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF- SOVEREIGN 1852
(Marsh 426; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1.377.671.
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1852 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65
NGC 1878934-001
Outstanding coin, one of the nicest of Victoria's Type A1 half-sovereigns.
Gem UNC with satiny luster, sharp strike and lovely color to the gold.
ex Heritage Signature Auction # 3014, Rosemont, April 2011, lot 24230.
NGC: Pop 2 with none grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1853 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) Head, Type A1 (without die number) GOLD HALF- SOVEREIGN 1853
(Marsh 427; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2,708,796
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1853 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 63+
NGC 2814721-001
A beautiful coin with the detail throughout the Queen's portrait as bold as can be
and the reverse shield retaining an as-struck appearance. The whole of the surfaces
both sides covered with shimmering luster.
Conservated by NCS.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1855 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) head, Type A1 (without die number) 1855 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 429; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,120,362
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1855 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 63
NGC 2781545-005
Choice UNC, very well struck with original luster and bright gold color.
NGC: Pop 2 with only one other graded MS64.
ex GK Coins, purchased 10 October 2013.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1856 G.britain Ex CARANETT COLLECTION
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NGC MS 64
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GT.BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) head, Type A1 (without die number) 1856 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 430; S 3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2.391.909.
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1856 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 1878268-020
An absolutely gorgeous Victorian half-sovereign with its brightness immediately captivating; somewhere between satin and reflecting luster.
The fields positively beaming with the devices slightly frosted in contrast.
Hints of deep orange tone gleam subtly in the recesses.
Some slight double striking is evident in the legend under magnification.
In an old NGC holder.
Ex Caranett Collection.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1857 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) head, Type A1 (without die number) 1857 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 431; S-3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 728,223
RATING: S (M.Marsh).
1857 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4492524-002
Bright and beautiful with sharp strike and full shimmering luster.
Ex Atlas Numismatics, 28 March 2018.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1858 G.britain Ex CARANETT COLLECTION
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (small) head, Type A1 (without die number) 1858 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 432; S-3859).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 855.578
RATING: R (M.Marsh).
1858 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 1878275-005
Bright and beautiful with sharp strike and full shimmering luster.
From the Caranett Collection in an old NGC slab.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1859 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) head, Type A2 (without die number) 1859 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 433; S 3859A).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2.203.813.
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1859 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS64
A superb coin, with full strike.
The fields with reflective luster and the devices slightly frosted in contrast
give a beautiful proof-like appearance.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1860 G.britain
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PCGS MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) head, Type A2 (without die number) 1860 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 434; S 3859A).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,131,500
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1860 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS65+
This tremendous GEM is premium in all regards, with nearly-pristine surfaces that glow intensely with lightly-toned golden luster and devices that are equally pleasing in both technical and stylistic quality. With the aid of magnification, the reverse appears to have been struck with clashed dies, with faint evidence surrounding the shield motif. As a whole, this small yet alluring selection is absolutely pleasing and exceedingly impressive.
The finest example of the date across both companies.
Ex Stacks & Bowers Auction, 18 August 2021.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1860 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) head, Type A2 (without die number) 1860 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN
(Marsh 434; S 3859A).
OBVERSE: Young head bust of the Queen to the left engraved by William Wyon.
REVERSE: Ornate garnished shield containing the Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom, engraved by J.B.Merlen.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,131,500
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1860 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 63
NGC 4241103-007
Attractive coin with soft golden radiance which swirls on the surfaces of well center strike.
Ex Heritage Auction # 3057, lot No. 33284, 12 Sept. 2017.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1861 G.britain Ex CARANETT COLLECTION
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NGC MS 65
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BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) Head, Type A2 without die number GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1861 (Marsh 435; S 3859A).
OBVERSE: Young head of Queen (larger than Type A1) facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,130,867.
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1861 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS65
NGC : 1878275-004
A stunning specimen with abundant luster and pristine devices.
Slightly clashed dies on the reverse leaving the incuse corner of Victoria's neck to the top right of the shield, in no way detracting from the eye appeal of this gorgeous gem.
The whole of the surfaces exhibits a high degree of quality that positions this gem as the finest certified across both NGC and PCGS to date.
NGC: A conditional rarity, the sole finest example certified by full two grades higher than the runner-up examples.
Ex Caranett Collection.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1863 G.britain NO DIE NUMBER
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) Head, Type A2 without die number GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1863
(Marsh 437; S 3859A).
OBVERSE: Young head of Queen (larger than Type A1) facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,371,574 This mintage includes those of the half-sovereigns of the same date with die number.
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1863 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
NGC 4156122-006
A brilliant choice uncirculated example, with bold strike, clear fields and strong luster.
NGC: Pop 1, with one grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1864 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1864
(Marsh 440; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,758,490
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1864 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS63
A beautiful coin, well struck, with cartwheel satiny luster and light reddish gold toning.
ex Heritage Auction # 3030, Lot 24184, 6 January 2014.
NGC: The single finest of the date.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1865 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1865
(Marsh 441; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,834.750
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1865 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS64
A beautiful coin, well struck, with cartwheel satiny luster and light reddish gold toning.
NGC: The single finest of the date. '
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1866 G.britain Ex LAKE COUNTY COLLECTION
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1866
(Marsh 442; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2,058.776
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1866 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS63
NGC 2754318-004
Highly satiny and carefully handled for the issue, with blooming golden luster that rolls over the fields upon a turn of the wrist to illuminate minimally marked surfaces. This date proves difficult to procure in finer grades, and currently ranks as the second-finest in NGC's census, with only a single MS64 certifying above.
Ex Lake County Collection.
Heritage Auction #3073, April 2019.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1867 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1867
(Marsh 443; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 992,795
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1867 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 63
A choice and sweepingly brilliant representative of this conditionally challenging 1/2 Sovereign, graced with deep antique gold that contributes an elegant sense of age to this visually refined specimen.
Ex Heritage Auction # 232331, lot 61352
August 3, 2023.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1867 G.britain
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NGC MS 62
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1867
(Marsh 443; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 992,795
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1867 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 62
Attractive coin, well struck overall with bright luster.
ex A.H.Baldwin & Sons Ltd, London, purchased 30 March 2010. Self submitted.
NGC: Pop 3 with two grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1869 G.britain
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NGC MS 65
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1869
(Marsh 444); S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,861,764
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1869 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 65, Die # 13.
NGC 6276723-010
A tremendous Gem specimen which displays classically toned golden surfaces and full luster that easily gleams from across the fields. Rather bold in strike with sharp details throughout and visually engaging at every turn, with undeniable eye appeal. Limitedly marked and on the whole quite attractive.
NGC: Single finest.
Ex Stacks and Bowers Auction - Section E -.
World Coins Part 3, Lot # 23219. Jan 14, 2023.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1870 G.britain Ex LAKE COUNTY COLLECTION
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NGC MS 62
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1870 (Marsh 445; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 981,408
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1870 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS62
Ex Lake County Collection.
Heritage Auction #3073, April 2019.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1871 G.britain
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PCGS MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young Head Type A2, with die number, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1871 (Marsh 446; S 3860).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2,217,760
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1871 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS63
Beautiful coin with full strike and satiny luster. Die# 52.
PCGS Pop 2 with none grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1872 G.britain
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NGC MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) head, Type A3 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1872
(Marsh 447; S 3860D).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. No dot.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE:
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1872 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 64
A glowing UNC with a strong strike for the issue, semi proof- like surfaces and considerable remaining luster.
ex Heritage Auction # 3038, lot 35010, Dallas, Jan.13, 2015.
NGC Pop 1 with none grading higher.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1873 G.britain
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NGC MS 63
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) head, Type A3 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1873
(Marsh 448; S 3860D).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. No dot.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2,003,464
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1873 GOLD 1/2 SOVEREIGN MS 63
A very well struck up example with slight proof-like fields on both sides.
Ex Heritage Auction #3063, Lot #34928, January 17, 2018.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1874 G.britain
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NGC MS 62
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) Head, Type A3 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1874 (Marsh 449; S-3860D).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. No dot.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 1,883,872.
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1874 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS62
Very solid and attractive for the grade, with good strike and considerable remaining luster.
NGC: Pop 2, 2nd finest.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1875 G.britain
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PCGS MS 64
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA Young (large) Head, Type A3 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1875 (Marsh 450, S-3860D).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial of the United Kingdom within a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. No dot.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 516,240
RATING: S (M.Marsh).
1875 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 64
Beautiful coin with strong strike and proof-like surfaces.
PCGS : Single finest.
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GREAT BRITAIN 1816-1901
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1/2SOV 1876 G.britain
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NGC MS 62
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GT. BRITAIN, VICTORIA, Young (large) head with narrow hair ribbon, Type A4, GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN 1876
(S 3860E).
OBVERSE: Young head of Victoria facing left.
REVERSE: The Ensigns Armorial witin a garnished shield surmounted by a crown. Die number below shield. No dot.
DIAMETER: 19.4 mm.
WEIGHT: 3.994 g.
FINENESS: 22 carat.
MILLESIMAL FINENESS: 916.66.
EDGE: Milled.
MINTAGE: 2.804.187
RATING: N (M.Marsh).
1876 GOLD HALF-SOVEREIGN MS 62
A nice example of this type, with a strong strike and considerable luster.
NGC has certified one coin in this grade with none finer.
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