If you own a George V Sovereign coin from between 1911 and 1932, there’s a good chance that you’re holding onto a piece of history worth over £1,000 today!
These gold coins, once used as currency, have appreciated in value due to their rarity, historical significance, and gold content.
In this article, we will guide you through the details of George V Sovereigns, how to identify whether yours is from the 1911–1932 period, and how much it might be worth today.
What is a George V Sovereign?
The George V Sovereign is a gold coin minted in the UK during the reign of King George V, which lasted from 1910 to 1936. Sovereigns were historically used as currency, and during George V’s reign, these coins were issued by the Royal Mint in both regular and proof qualities.
These coins are famous for their beautiful design, featuring the iconic image of St. George slaying the dragon on the reverse side, which was designed by Benedetto Pistrucci.
What Makes the 1911–1932 George V Sovereigns Valuable?
The value of the George V Sovereign from 1911–1932 has soared over the years for several reasons:
- Gold Content: Each Sovereign contains approximately 7.32 grams of 22-carat gold. With the price of gold fluctuating, the coin’s intrinsic value is directly tied to the market value of gold.
- Rarity: Some years have lower mintage figures, which makes certain Sovereigns rarer and more valuable to collectors.
- Historical Significance: These coins represent a key period in British history, as George V was the king during World War I and the interwar years, making these coins highly sought after by numismatists.
How to Identify Your George V Sovereign from 1911–1932
To verify if your Sovereign is from the 1911–1932 period, you need to look for the following key identifiers:
- Mintmark: Sovereigns minted in London don’t have a mintmark, but those from other locations like Perth or Melbourne might have a mintmark (such as “P” for Perth).
- Year: Ensure the coin is from 1911–1932. Each coin will have the year of mintage stamped on the obverse (front) side.
- Portrait: The obverse of these coins will feature a portrait of King George V. The design, created by Sir Bertram Mackennal, portrays George V facing left.
- Reverse Design: The reverse side typically features St. George on horseback, designed by Benedetto Pistrucci. This design has remained largely unchanged since the coin’s introduction.
What’s the Value of a George V Sovereign from 1911–1932?
The value of these coins varies depending on the year, condition, and gold content. As of 2025, a George V Sovereign can be worth:
- Gold Content Value: Given the current price of gold, a Sovereign’s intrinsic value is around £300–£400 for the gold alone.
- Collectible Value: In addition to the gold value, collectors are willing to pay a premium for coins in good condition, especially those with lower mintage years. For example, a Sovereign from 1911 or 1925 in mint condition can fetch up to £1,000 or more at auction.
- Mint Marks: Coins from certain mints, such as the Melbourne mint, may be worth more due to their rarity.
Factors That Affect the Value of Your Coin
The following factors will influence how much your George V Sovereign is worth:
| Factor | Effect on Value |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | Some years are rarer than others, increasing their value. |
| Condition | Coins in uncirculated or proof condition are worth more. |
| Mint Mark | Coins with mint marks (e.g., “P” for Perth) may have added value. |
| Gold Price | Fluctuations in gold prices affect the coin’s intrinsic value. |
How to Sell Your George V Sovereign
If you believe your George V Sovereign is valuable, you can sell it to coin dealers, at auctions, or through online marketplaces like eBay. Here are some steps to take before selling:
- Get it Appraised: Take the coin to a reputable numismatist or dealer to have it appraised.
- Check for Authenticity: Ensure your coin is authentic to avoid selling a counterfeit.
- Compare Prices: Research recent auction results for similar coins to determine a fair selling price.
A George V Sovereign from 1911–1932 could be worth far more than just its gold value, especially if it’s in good condition or from a rare year.
As these coins become increasingly sought after by collectors, they represent a solid investment for both numismatists and anyone with an interest in British history.
If you’ve inherited or come across one of these coins, it’s well worth having it appraised to understand its full value.
FAQs
How can I tell if my George V Sovereign is from 1911–1932?
Check the year on the obverse, the mintmark (if any), and the portrait of King George V to confirm the period.
Is the gold content of a George V Sovereign worth more than its collectible value?
The gold content is a significant part of its value, but the collectible premium (rarity, year, condition) can sometimes be worth more.
Can I sell my George V Sovereign for a profit?
Yes, if your Sovereign is in good condition and comes from a rare year, it can fetch a significant premium beyond its gold content.