A Masterpiece of Dignity and Grace — A Timeless Victoria Gold Sovereign

An enduring symbol of elegance and rarity. A must-have for collectors and investors alike.

From the world-renowned series of Queen Victoria coins, we are pleased to present an exceptionally well-preserved gold sovereign — a true treasure that combines historical gravitas, outstanding artistry, and enduring market value.

■ Design

Obverse: Portrait of Queen Victoria (Young Head type)
Legend: VICTORIA DEI GRATIA 1871
(Translation: “Victoria, by the Grace of God”)
Engraver: William Wyon

Reverse: Crowned shield of the Royal Arms of Great Britain
Legend: BRITANNIARUM REGINA FID: DEF
(Translation: “Queen of the Britains, Defender of the Faith”)
Engraver: Jean Baptiste Merlen

About the Engraver – William Wyon
Renowned as one of the finest engravers in the history of the Royal Mint, William Wyon was a leading figure of 19th-century British coinage.
He was responsible for some of the most iconic royal portraits and commemorative issues, most notably Una and the Lion, widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful coins. Wyon’s work is celebrated not only for its precision but also for its artistic depth — setting a standard that influenced generations of designers and continues to captivate collectors worldwide.

■ Grade

MS65 (NGC)
View NGC Certification

■ Coin Details

• Year: 1871

• Country: United Kingdom

• Denomination: 1 Sovereign = 1 Pound

• Mintage: Approx. 8,767,250 (combined total for both Shield and St. George & Dragon reverses)

• Material: Gold

• Weight: 7.99 g

• Diameter: Approx. 22 mm

• Engravers: Obverse – William Wyon, Reverse – Jean Baptiste Merlen

• Grading Agency: NGC

• Grade: MS65 (Mint State)

■ Highlights

Rarity

Only 943 coins graded by NGC in Mint State.
Although the 1871 sovereign saw a relatively high mintage, most circulated heavily as currency. Well-preserved, collectible-grade examples are exceptionally scarce.

This coin, graded MS65, is among the finest:

• NGC Ranking: 2nd highest — only 45 coins graded MS65, and just 3 at MS65★

• PCGS Ranking: 3rd highest — only 6 coins in higher grades (MS66, MS65+)

Considering this coin’s age — over 150 years old — its pristine surfaces and sharply defined strike make it a true rarity. A Mint State grade of this caliber is rarely encountered and highly sought after.

Condition

Despite its origin as a circulation coin, this piece has been remarkably preserved. The fineness of detail, brilliance, and clarity of strike reflect the coin’s outstanding craftsmanship and the care with which it has been handled.

The MS65 grade places it firmly in collector-investment grade, earning its place not just as a historical artifact, but as a genuine work of art.

Market Appeal

In the world of antique numismatics, British gold coins enjoy enduring popularity. Among them, Queen Victoria coins stand out for their symbolism, design, and historical context.

The Young Head portrait, designed by William Wyon, was first introduced in 1838 and remained in use for nearly 50 years. Queen Victoria herself favored this youthful image, and it became a familiar and beloved symbol throughout the Empire. Though she was 52 years old in 1871, the portrait embodies the pride and power of Victorian Britain at its zenith.

That year, Britain stood at the height of the Industrial Revolution, with unmatched influence in global trade, military might, and culture. The sovereign's reverse — the crowned Royal Shield — reflects this national prestige and remains one of the most admired heraldic designs in numismatics.

The Shield Sovereign, as opposed to the St. George and Dragon reverse, was discontinued in 1887, further enhancing the coin’s rarity and desirability.

■ Why This Coin Matters

• Sculpted by William Wyon, the artist behind the legendary Una and the Lion

• Rarity in grade: One of the top certified examples globally

• Historical resonance: Represents the height of the British Empire

• Aesthetic excellence: One of the finest young monarch portraits ever struck

• Tangible value: Solid gold, investment-grade, globally recognized

Whether you're a seasoned investor or a passionate collector, this coin offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of royal and artistic heritage — one that reflects the confidence, elegance, and global reach of Victorian Britain.

■ A Crown Jewel of Victorian Numismatics

A stunning combination of artistry, rarity, and historical importance.
This Victoria Shield Sovereign is not just a coin — it’s a legacy. A timeless reminder of one of the most iconic monarchs in history, struck by the hands of one of the greatest artists of the era.

An elite-level addition to any portfolio or collection.