1913 Gold Half Sovereign George V | CGT Free UK Bullion
The 1913 Half Sovereign is a historic British gold coin struck during the reign of King George V by The Royal Mint. Minted in 22 carat gold with a fineness of 916.7, the coin has a total weight of 3.99 grams and contains approximately 3.66 grams of pure gold. With a diameter of 19.3 mm, the Half Sovereign carries a face value of ten shillings and remains legal tender in the United Kingdom.
As the coin carries no mintmark, it was produced at The Royal Mint in London. The 1913 issue forms part of the George V Sovereign series, which was struck between 1911 and 1926 and is highly regarded by both bullion investors and collectors for its historic significance and classic British design.
The obverse of the 1913 Half Sovereign features the left-facing portrait of King George V, designed by Australian sculptor Sir Bertram Mackennal. The portrait presents the King without a crown in a realistic and dignified style that became the official effigy used on British coinage throughout much of his reign. Surrounding the portrait is the Latin inscription identifying George V as King and Emperor of India.
The reverse showcases Benedetto Pistrucci’s renowned depiction of Saint George slaying the dragon, one of the most iconic designs in British numismatic history. The detailed scene portrays Saint George on horseback defeating the dragon beneath him, symbolising courage and triumph. The date “1913” appears below the design, alongside Pistrucci’s initials “B.P.” near the exergue.
Struck just one year before the outbreak of the First World War, the 1913 Half Sovereign represents an important period in British history. Many Sovereigns and Half Sovereigns from this era were later melted down, adding to the long-term collectability and desirability of surviving examples today.
Due to its recognised gold content, historic appeal, and worldwide popularity, the 1913 Half Sovereign remains a sought-after choice for investors looking to own fractional gold as well as collectors building historic British coin collections.
