1912 Gold Sovereign Coin George V | CGT Free UK Bullion
The 1912 Gold Sovereign is a classic British bullion coin struck by The Royal Mint during the reign of King George V. Minted in 22 carat gold with a purity of 916.7, the coin weighs 7.98 grams and contains approximately 7.32 grams of pure gold. Measuring 22 mm in diameter, the Sovereign carries a face value of £1 and remains legal tender in the United Kingdom.
As no mintmark is present on the coin, the 1912 Sovereign was produced at The Royal Mint in London, England. The 1912 issue is particularly significant as it was among the first Sovereigns released during the reign of King George V, making it an important piece of early 20th-century British coinage.
The obverse of the 1912 Gold Sovereign features the left-facing portrait of King George V, created by renowned engraver Sir Bertram Mackennal. The portrait presents the King without a crown in a realistic and distinguished style that became the official effigy used on British coinage throughout much of his reign. The designer’s initials, “B.M.”, are positioned beneath the neckline.
Encircling the portrait is the Latin inscription:
“GEORGIVS V D.G.BRITT: OMN: REX F.D.IND:IMP:”
which translates to “George V, by the Grace of God, King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.”
The reverse showcases Benedetto Pistrucci’s famous Saint George and the Dragon design, one of the most iconic motifs ever featured on British gold coinage. The detailed artwork depicts Saint George mounted on horseback defeating the dragon beneath him, symbolising bravery and triumph. The year “1912” appears below the design, along with Pistrucci’s initials “B.P.”
Combining historic significance, worldwide recognition, and strong gold content, the 1912 Gold Sovereign remains highly sought after by both bullion investors and coin collectors alike.
