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2003 Elizabeth II Gold Proof Sovereign

2003 Proof Sovereign

Buy a 2003 Elizabeth II Gold Proof Sovereign

from
£495.00
(VAT Exempt)
Limited edition gold proof Sovereign dated 2003. This coin features Ian Rank-Broadley’s mature portrait of Her Majesty the Queen to the obverse. This is the fourth such definitive portrait used on her money since her first coins were issued in 1953. The reverse shows an instantly recognisable image of Saint George and the dragon. This engraving is the work of Italian artist Benedetto Pistrucci who created the striking work for the first modern Sovereigns. These were introduced in 1817 after a major overhaul of British coinage following the Napoleonic Wars. Pistrucci’s rendition of England’s patron saint has been a perennial presence on these gold coins ever since. They have been minted by every monarch since George III. This 2003 example conforms to the strict specifications established in the nineteenth century: it’s composed of 7.98 grams of 22 carat gold and has a diameter of 22.05 millimetres. The difference is the proof finish. Intended for collectors, proof coins are struck multiple times with hand prepared dies, producing a richly detailed coin with a high-shine appearance. Their beauty appeals but so does the limited numbers these coins are struck in. Just 12,433 gold proof Sovereigns were issued in 2003. This one comes in its original presentation case from The Royal Mint with a numbered certificate of authenticity enclosed.
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A limited edition gold proof 2003 Sovereign to add to your collection.

The Story of the Sovereign

The first Sovereigns were struck during the reign of Tudor king Henry VIII. Centuries later, a new gold coin bearing this name was introduced, following a major overhaul of British coinage. This Sovereign, first minted in 1817, established specifications that are still strictly followed today.

All Sovereigns weight exactly 7.98 grams and are composed of 22 carat gold. That’s a gold weight of 7.32 grams or .2354 troy ounces. Sovereigns measure 22.05 millimetres in diameter and have a nominal face value of one pound sterling though their gold content means they command significantly higher prices.

Sovereigns once circulated across the globe but production ceased with the outbreak of the First World War. Reintroduced in 1957, annual issues attract investors and collectors with limited edition proof Sovereigns - hand-finished for a flawless effect - the most sought-after.

12,433 gold proof Sovereigns were issued in the year 2003, including those offered in sets.

Saint George and the Dragon

For much of its history the modern Sovereign has featured an iconic reverse design, crafted by Italian artist Benedetto Pistrucci. His instantly-recognisable Saint George and the Dragon design shows England's patron saint mounted on a horse, slaying a dragon underfoot.

It's a powerful image that has become synonymous with the gold Sovereign. These coins don't carry their denomination on their face as part of their legend like most currency, so the Saint George motif is an easy identifier for many collectors. The coin's date appears below the dragon.

Pistrucci’s reverse is paired with Ian Rank-Broadley's portrait of Her Majesty the Queen. In use between 1998 and 2015, this fourth official effigy shows a greater degree or realism than its idealised predecessors. Broadley’s initials - IRB - appear below the truncation of Elizabeth II's neck.

Limited Edition Presentation

Your 2003 proof Sovereign comes in its original packaging from The Royal Mint. This consists of a velvet lined presentation box in which the coin is presented inside a capsule. Also included: a numbered certificate of authenticity.

If you're in the market for a 2003 Sovereign there are several alternate options to consider:

  • If you're not worried about the year and are looking to invest in gold then our best value Sovereigns - offered in good to fine condition - are your best choice
  • Our top-quality bullion 2003 Sovereigns offer the same amount of gold as proof coins but are much more affordable. Ours are all graded about Extremely Fine or better
  • Also available: bullion 2003 Half Sovereigns with exactly half the amount of gold of a 'full' Sovereign and a comparably reduced price

All Sovereigns, including those struck in 2003, are exempt from Capital Gains Tax as UK legal tender and free from VAT in the UK and EU as investment grade gold.

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5th January 2024
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1st September 2023
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