Ancient, British and World Coins, Tokens, Banknotes and Medallions

Victoria (1837-1901), Sovereign, 1859, struck from Australian gold, a raised line on the lower edge of the ribbon at the back of the Queen's head (Marsh 42a; S.3852d). Good very fine, very rare

Struck from a consignment of gold sent from the Australian fields, which was at first deemed unsuitable for coinage because of its brittle nature. Mr G.F. Ansell of the Royal Mint carried out experiments with the metal which proved successful, and a small issue of Sovereigns were struck in June and July 1859.