1989 3-Coin Gold Proof Sovereign Set NGC PF 70 Ultra Cameo

This 1989 Gold Proof 3 Coin Sovereign Set is graded by NGC. 

This PF 70 graded coin set features a double sovereign (£2), full sovereign (£1) and half-sovereign (50 pence).

This coin set celebrates the 500th anniversary of the gold sovereign and features the sought after Coronation obverse and Tudor Rose reverse designs by Bernard Sindall.

The 1989 sovereigns were only issued in a proof finish. No uncirculated versions of these coins exist.

This set has been graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation and all 3 coins have been given the highest possible grade of PF-70. It is worth noting the coins are also Ultra Cameo, meaning there is a high contrast between the matte and mirror finish on the design.

500th Anniversary of the Gold Sovereign

The designs used for the gold coins in 1989 were not used on any other coins, or in any other year, so this set becomes a 'must' for type collectors. No uncirculated version of this sovereign was issued.

The designs used on all three coins in this set recreate those used on the very first gold sovereigns for Henry VII in 1489. The original sovereigns were intended to be used as a symbol of Britain's importance and wealth, to impress the rest of Europe.

The obverse features a majestic portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II seated facing on a throne. The reverse is a crowned shield within a Tudor double rose.

The similar original sovereign designs continued in use through to Elizabeth I over a century later, and some James I gold coins still used a similar obverse up until 1619.

The obverse features a representation of Queen Elizabeth II at her coronation. She is seated facing on a throne and is holding the Sceptre with the Cross and the Rod with the Dove. The legend reads:

ELIZABETH II • DEI • GRA • REG • FID • DEF

The reverse of the 1989 Elizabeth II gold sovereign mirrors its 500 year old original counterpart. The Royal Arms shield is surmounted by the royal crown, both of these images are superimposed upon a double Tudor rose. The inscription reads:

1489-1989 ANNIVERSARY OF THE GOLD SOVEREIGN

Both the reverse and the obverse designs were created by the sculptor, Bernard Sindall.