Kensington Mint Introduction of the Proof Sovereign Set

1980 Set PRICE £899 (5 sets available)

1979 Set PRICE £1699 Sold Out

The British gold sovereign has a long history, first minted in 1489 during the reign of King Henry VII. It was reintroduced 1817 under King George III as part of the Great Recoinage, becoming a symbol of the British Empire’s monetary system. The coin is renowned for depicting St George slaying the dragon, designed by Benedetto Pistrucci. In 1979, the Royal Mint launched the proof sovereign for collectors. Unlike standard sovereigns, proof coins are struck using specially prepared dies and polished blanks, resulting in sharper details and a mirror-like finish. This reintroduction highlighted the sovereign’s enduring appeal as a collector’s piece rather than for everyday use.

Edition limit 999. Presented in a luxury Kensington Mint presentation case, accompanied by individually numbered COA and informative booklet on the coins in the set.

Coins included in the set

• 1980 Proof Half Sovereign or 1979 Proof Sovereign for Premium Version (22carat Gold)
• 1980 Elizabeth II Proof Fifty Pence or 1979 issue for Premium Version Base metal
• 1980 Elizabeth II Proof Ten Pence or 1979 issue for Premium Version Base metal
• 1980 Elizabeth II Proof Five Pence or 1979 issue for Premium Version Base metal
• 1980 Elizabeth II Proof Two Pence or 1979 issue for Premium Version Copper
• 1980 Elizabeth II Proof One Pence or 1979 issue for Premium Version Copper
• 1980 Elizabeth II Proof Halfpenny or 1979 issue for Premium Version Copper

• The proof sovereign is a highly sought-after coin collected by gold enthusiasts and coin enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its annual sell-out, it is a centrepiece for many collectors’ treasured collections.
• The opportunity to own the Arnold Machin portrait, the second and arguably most significant design of the QEII era, is highly coveted in the world of coins and stamps. This portrait is featured on major releases, such as the first edition proof sovereign, and has also appeared on UK stamps for decades, further cementing its importance.
• First-edition releases or coins that are the first of their kind often become highly sought after over time as their status and significance are widely recognised. This is especially true if subsequent issues or coins of the exact specification, like the proof half sovereign or proof sovereign, gain popularity, further enhancing the value of the originals.

Alternatively, contact Juan from BBX on juan.harris@bbxworld.com or 01395 642 387