Story

Perfect sovereign pair

King George V succeeded his father, King Edward VII, in 1910. George V would reign for nearly 26 years, and during that time two obverse designs were used on sovereigns. The Large Portrait obverse was employed from 1911 to 1928, with the Small Portrait type issued only from 1929 to 1931. 

A marvellous overview of this significant piece of Australian numismatic history, this prestigious presentation comprises a random date selection of both the Small and Large Portraits with mintmarks from either the Perth, Sydney, or Melbourne Mints. 

King George V design

Struck at either Perth, Melbourne and Sydney Mints in 22-carat gold, each sovereign features the traditional 'P', 'M' or 'S' mintmark, and has been graded as Extremely Fine to Uncirculated Condition.

1   26409 1911 31 KGV SOV SML&LRG HEAD EF aUNC PR Box Open

A historical event, the change in type came about due to the fact that the Royal Mint and its branches had long endured difficulties with striking Large Portrait coinage of George V – particularly regarding the lifespan of the dies. The alterations made to ‘the world’s most famous gold coin’ were therefore aimed at extending the working life of sovereign dies, which were all produced in London. The resulting modification to the design is obvious to the eye. The portrait of George V is smaller on the second type, the border is more pronounced, and the initials of the designer – Australian artist Bertram Mackennal – are further to the right on the neck. Fascinatingly, the reverse was re-engraved as well! The St George & the Dragon motif is much smaller on the second type, and several changes to the actual design are apparent.

Prestigious packaging

This highly sought-after typeset collection is housed in an impressive timber case and shipper, and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

Specifications

Product specification

Year Date

1911 and 1931

Gold Content (Troy oz)

22-carat

Fineness (% purity)

91.67

Grade

Extremely Fine - Uncirculated

You may also like

  • Delivery
    Free shipping worldwide

    On orders over AUD 300 (excludes bullion)

  • Shopping
    Shop with confidence

    30-day money back guarantee (excludes bullion, loose pink diamonds, in-store purchases)

  • Click & Collect
    Click & Collect

    FREE service for all collector coins, bullion, jewellery and gift orders up to AUD 70,000.

  • Secure
    Safe shopping

    Safe and secure payment using 256-bit SSL encryption

  • Privacy
    Privacy

    The Perth Mint does not sell, loan or share your personal information