Did We Find the Only Coronation Sovereign "Brockage" Error Coin?

What is a Brockage Error on a Coin?

A brockage is a fascinating type of coin error that occurs during the minting process of coins such as gold sovereigns or other mass-produced bullion products. It happens when a struck coin becomes stuck to the die and transfers its design onto a new blank coin fed into the press. If the struck coin is not detected by the minting staff, it results in the creation of a brockage. These coins feature one side with the normal design, while the other side displays a mirrored version of the same design.

Brockages are particularly intriguing to collectors, as they highlight the complexity of the minting process. While many brockages are off-centre, a fully centred or "complete" brockage is the most sought-after and often commands a higher value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to coin collecting, a brockage coin could be an exciting addition to any collection.

The 2023 Coronation Bullion Sovereign - Brockage Error

This brockage is currently believed to be the only known brockage error on 2023 Coronation bullion sovereigns, making it potentially rarer than other famous mint error coins. For instance, the 1933 gold double eagle, with only 13 known specimens remaining, sold for $18.9 million in 2021.

This GIF shows the brockage coin alternating between the reverse and the obverse. While they appear identical, the obverse is inverted, giving it a rather unusual appearance.

Early Brockage Errors

When the team at Chards discovered this extraordinary brockage, our CEO, Lawrence Chard, explained that brockages have appeared on coins dating as far back as Roman coinage. There are also photos and records of brockages on Ancient Egyptian coins, as well as more modern examples like this one.

Lawrence pointed out that brockages in modern times are more commonly found on base metal or silver coins rather than gold. He noted that minting errors are far less likely to occur on gold coins due to their smaller mintages and more stringent quality control processes. This discovery is particularly significant, as it's the first gold sovereign brockage we have encountered.

Are Error Coins Really Worth Anything?

The simple answer is that it depends on what a collector is willing to pay for a given error coin. It also depends on how many of the error coins are known to exist, for whom the coin was struck, and when. Collectors often seek out error coins for their uniqueness, and these coins can be passed down through generations or sold at auction for potentially millions, depending on their rarity.

Therefore, the value of this 2023 Coronation Sovereign would ultimately depend on how much the highest bidder is willing to pay. However, upon its discovery, Lawrence was quick to state that he wanted to add it to his personal collection and is not open to any offers.

Coin News September 2023

In September 2023, Coin News by Token Publishing featured a short passage about our discovery of the brockage error. We also shared our findings on The Silver Forum, where it was met with great excitement from collectors. If you would like to contribute your opinions or share your findings about brockage coins, feel free to join the ongoing conversation on The Silver Forum. Many participants have asked "whether the coin is for sale" and were astonished by the discovery, particularly given how rarely such errors occur with The Royal Mint's quality control.

Learn More With Our Brockage YouTube Video

Join our CEO, Lawrence Chard, as he delves into the fascinating story of the 2023 Coronation Sovereign brockage error. Discover what makes this one of one coin so extraordinary and learn why it's capturing the attention of collectors worldwide!

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