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THE OXFORD MINT SOVEREIGN
Since 1489
The Sovereign was first struck over five hundred years ago in 1489 and as such is the oldest coin still in existence today. The first Sovereigns were struck in 24k . It was only later as they gained in popularity they were struck in 22k to increase their durability.
In the 17th century, Sovereigns began to be referred as Guineas as much of the gold to make these coins came from Guinea. Twenty one shillings constituted a Sovereign (or Guinea) and this continued till 1816.
The Napoleanic wars had taken their toll on Great Britains finances and it was at this time that the twenty one shilling Guineas were recalled and re-issued in 1817 as twenty shilling Sovereigns bearing the now famous motif of St George slaying the Dragon.
The last Sovereign (2022) with QEII and St George and the Dragon
With the passing of our beloved Queen in September 2022, The Oxford Mint Sovereign (22k and 24k) which was released in October 2022 is the last Sovereign to bear the famous St George and the Dragon on the reverse and Jody Clark's QEII effigy.
In fact, this is the only bullion Sovereign with this motif in 2022 as The Royal Mint deviated from the traditional motif in this, the last year of QEII's reign. This makes The Oxford Mint Sovereign a true one of a kind final issue.
The Oxford Mint Sovereign 2024
The Oxford Mint Sovereign is deeply rooted in history and draws its design inspiration from William Wyon's detailed and artistic interpretation of St George slaying the Dragon.
This work of art first appeared on Prince Albert's personal medal in 1845. William Wyon was the Chief Engraver at The Royal Mint and is famous for his other works such as The Three Graces, Una and the Lion and Queen Victoria's Gothic Revival potrait.