Gold Sovereigns have been around for hundreds of years, so clearly their popularity must have a good reason. Investing in physical gold is growing in popularity, but the type of coin or bar can be crucial to the performance of that investment. Options vary between gold bars, non-UK coins such as Krugerrands and the popular Royal Mint coins, the Britannia and Sovereign.
We reveal five compelling reasons why Sovereign gold coins should provide the backbone of any investment into physical gold.
Reasons to buy gold sovereigns
In this video, I’ll talk about the main reasons investors buy Gold Sovereign coins. If you’re thinking of starting a gold portfolio or even adding gold to an existing collection, this video will explain exactly why Gold Sovereigns play such an important role.
1. Divisibility and balance
With most other bullion coins weighing an ounce, the Sovereign coin provides a complete alternative at just over a quarter of an ounce. We’re strong believers here at Physical Gold that portfolio variety is key to success, so mixing up the size of your coins helps achieve that.
Owning smaller denominated coins also allows for more flexibility when selling gold. Rather than being constrained to selling a minimum of one ounce, owning Sovereigns offers the chance to sell in far smaller sizes. Even the best-laid plans change, so having this added flexibility can be hugely beneficial.
2. Affordability and value
Next up is value. For the more modest investor, buying even a one ounce coin can be a stretch at over £1,000 each time. Sovereigns can be bought at around a quarter of that, granting access to the market for the smaller investor.
One growing gold investment strategy is to buy gold coins on a monthly basis, check out our Monthly Saver to find out how. Saving in gold each month gradually builds a nest egg, but also irons out price fluctuations. Small coins such as Sovereigns are the ideal choice for such saving plans as larger coins are simply too expensive.
One question we do get asked is whether Sovereigns are an expensive choice per gram. The very simple answer is NO! Due to mass production, Sovereigns are far cheaper per gram than alternatives such as quarter ounce Britannias.
3. Liquidity
One aspect of buying gold which should never be overlooked is liquidity. Just like developing properties, the more desirable and easy to sell your asset is, the better price you’ll achieve when you sell.
Sovereigns have been around since 1489, with the modern Sovereign thriving for over two centuries now. No other gold coin has a second-hand market as established as the gold Sovereign. It’s well-known around the globe, so combined with its affordability, is the most liquid coin in existence.
The saying goes, that there’s a different Sovereign to suit everyone, from price-obsessed investors to passionate coin collectors.
The current year of issue will always be plentiful, so this offers the investor rock bottom prices and a lot of gold for your money. The strong secondary market provides a supply of nearly-new Sovereigns from the past 10 years which may even be obtainable at a discount to new coins.
Going back in time, George V Sovereigns remain cheap but with an element of numismatic value and interest. The Edward VII coins are slightly more valuable again. Then finally, the irrepressible Queen Victoria has 3 different Sovereigns minted under her reign, the young head, jubilee head and old head. These are the most expensive of the modern Sovereigns but have the chance of increasing in value more than new ones due to their historical and scarcity factor.
For those wanting even more choice, Sovereigns are also available as Half Sovereigns, Quarter Sovereigns, Double Sovereigns and even a huge Quintuple Sovereign.
5. Tax efficiency
Finally, one of the most important aspects of any serious investor is tax efficiency. With its investment-grade status, the Sovereign is free from VAT. That’s great, but the real benefit comes when Sovereigns are sold. As legal tender in the UK, the Sovereign is also free from Capital Gains Tax. That means any profits made upon selling are completely tax-free. That puts it head and shoulders above most mainstream investments.
So there you have it, Sovereign gold coins form the backbone of any serious precious metals portfolio. They are the go-to coin for a majority of our customers as they simply don’t compromise in any way.
If you found our “5 Reasons to Buy Gold Sovereigns” video helpful, you may want to check out all 20 video tutorials.
If you’re interested in buying gold Sovereigns, check out our website at www.physicalgold.com where we stock thousands of different Sovereign coins. If you need guidance, don’t hesitate to call our expert team on 020 7060 9992.
Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year starts on 5th February 2019 and lasts until 24th January 2020 – the next animal to be represented is the pig. This is good news for investors as the pig is seen as a symbol of luck and financial success, it’s viewed as a good year to make money and invest! With this sentiment and the size of the Chinese investment market this is a positive indicator for gold prices in 2019.
The year of the pig 2019
The pig is the twelfth and final of the Chinese zodiac animals. The pig is last because it is said that pig arrived last to the part of the emperor! The pig belongs to the earthly branch and is “yin” in terms of “yin and yang”.
In Chinese culture pigs are highly esteemed and viewed as a symbol of wealth, pigs are seen as a sign of good fortune, especially their large ears and chubby faces. People born in the year of the pig are said to be gentle, loyal and generous in personality.
Previous years of the pig occurring in the last 50 years were 1971, 1983, 1995 and 2007. Why not buy a year of the pig coin as unique gift for someone born in this zodiac sign? It makes for a unique gift.
1oz Lunar Pig gold coin
Year of the pig – coin issues
These commemorative coins are typically offered in both gold and silver and always have a collectability premium when compared to the current gold/silver spot price. So, if getting the most metal for your money is a key priority, investing in gold bars or silver bars would work best.
The UK Royal Mint has produced a range of coins in both gold and silver, click here for info. The coins were designed by Harry Brockway and feature a sow feeding piglets with a night-time country sky setting. The following coins are available:
Gold coins – are available in one-tenth of an ounce, one ounce and five ounces sizes
Silver coins – are available in one ounce, five ounces and 1KG sizes
Detailed information about the Royal Mail mintages is available here.
Other Countries with the year of the pig mintages in 2019
There are many countries, which will have the Chinese Year of the PIG issues. Just a few examples of a special year of the pig coins are:
Call Physical Gold – experts in Chinese Zodiac coins
It’s good to know if you need helpful advice on all aspects of gold investment that you can always turn to Physical Gold. We always recommend you call us on 020 7060 9992 or contact us by email before making an investment in gold coins. We believe in general that Chinese Zodiac coins are a worthwhile investment as part of a collectable gold coins portfolio. Speak to our experts now and we can guide you through the process.
The Bloomsbury Coin Fair
The Bloomsbury Coin Fair is a hugely popular event that is held 8 times a year in central London. With a highly affordable entry charge of only £2.00, it is a great place to visit and connect with the world of numismatists. It is a veritable treasure trove for those with a passion for collecting. They can not only see great coins first hand at the fair but also connect with experienced collectors.
There is plenty of advice available about coin investments and of course, the opportunity to browse catalogues and participate in auctions during the day. The Bloomsbury fair usually has around 40 dealers present and the owners of the event are John Philpotts and Sophie Dickenson, who are also responsible for running the show.
For 2019, the fair has moved from its previous venue (and namesake – the Bloomsbury Hotel) and will now be staged (still in the Bloomsbury area) at the Royal National Hotel, 38-51 Bedford Way, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H 0DG.
For those driving in, parking is available in over half a dozen car parks in the local area, click this link for further details.
Numismatic fairs are a great place to mingle and network with like-minded collectors
2019 Bloomsbury coin fair dates and times
2019 promises to be a great year for gold and silver coins. The dates for the Bloomsbury Coin Fair in 2019 are as follows:
6th January 2019
2nd March 2019
6thApril 2019
4thMay 2019
6thJuly 2019
5thOctober 2019 and
7th December 2019
“Understanding the gold price per oz”, a YouTube video from Physical Gold Ltd.
Timings of entry are 9:30 AM to 2 PM and the entrance fee is £2 for guests. Exhibitors can also book tables to display their wares and do need to inform the organisers well in advance in order to ensure that a table will be available. Table prices range from £130 for a table 6 ft. long up to £250 for a 12-foot table. The fair covers many interesting periods in coin history. Visitors can find Tudor coins, Norman and Anglo-Saxon coins and even coins that date back to Roman times and the Iron Age. A list of regular exhibitors can be found here.
Call us for helpful advice when you build your collection
There are many exhibitions across the world where collectors congregate to find out more about coins and gain knowledge about numismatics and investing. Of course, the Bloomsbury Coin Fair is one of the most popular ones in the UK to attend.
However, expert knowledge is always helpful before you dash off with your hard-earned money to a coin fair to make investments. You need to have deep knowledge about the subject before you put your money on it and this does not come easy.
For those interested the fair also has a range of other antiquities for sale as well as banknotes and medals. If you enjoy visiting the Bloomsbury Coin Fair then you may also enjoy attending the London Coin Fair too – visit https://www.physicalgold.com/insights/london-coin-fair-dates-2019/ for details.
Contacting Physical Gold for further advice
The good news is that our experts at Physical Gold are always at your service to give you valuable advice, help you build your collection and even procure specific coins that you may want for your collection. Call us on 020 7060 9992 to talk to one of our experts who can help you learn more about numismatics and make the right investment decisions.
Disclaimer: Physical Gold is in no way connected to the Bloomsbury Coin Fair, but we do wholeheartedly recommend the fair as a good place to visit for both coin enthusiasts and investors.
The London Coin Fair is a long-running numismatic event in the British capital. It has been staged for about 30 years now. It is held four times a year and is an important date in the UK numismatic calendar. Of course, one of the highlights of the event is the dealer stalls that are set up. The many UK and European collectors flock to this event to buy coins. However, there are also many books and educational materials available for people who are growing an interest in coin collecting.
The London Coin Fair is currently held at the Holiday Inn hotel on Coram Street in London. The nearest London underground station is Russell Square. Once out of the station, visitors can walk up the road on to Woburn Place and take a right on to Coram Street, before Tavistock Place. The Holiday Inn is on Coram Street. If you’re travelling by car, the nearest car park is the NCP car park on Marchmont Street, very close to the Holiday Inn, off Tavistock Place.
The event is held on the first Saturday of the month in February, June, September and November and is the largest international coin fair in the UK. In 2019 the dates for the fair are as follows:
2nd February 2019,
1st June 2019,
7th September 2019 and
2nd November 2019
The event spans two floors of the hotel and features more than 75 dealers. There are specialist displays and dealer tables for ancient and modern coins, books, medals, lots of antique stuff and medals
Admission timings are 9:30 am – 4:00pm. Entry charges cost £5, concession £3 for one adult. For any additional information, please visit this page and email or call Mike Veissid.
The London Coin Fair is one of the most important numismatic events in the UK
Highlights of the fair
There are some famous auctions held at the fair. For example, the Baldwins Argentum Auction is a long-standing feature at this coin fair that starts at 2 pm. Buyers are allowed to view the auction items in the morning. Many European dealers exhibit at the coin fair. For example, the 4th of February 2017 event saw a number of European participants like Agora Numismatics from Netherlands, Athens Numismatic Gallery from Greece, Collector’s Universe from Paris in France and Volodimir Dalinitchi from Germany.
One of the big differences between the UK and US numismatic events is that the coins are not embedded in a slab. Coins are embedded in the US for safety and security, however, at the London Coin Fair, collectors enjoy a greater ‘touch and feel’ experience before buying a coin.
Anybody interested in coin investment will benefit from viewing our YouTube video “The Gold price today & investing in gold medium to long term”
Bargains and rarities
There are bargain bins at the London Coin Fair, but collectors need to get to the event early in order to catch some good deals. But, for more serious collectors, there are some great treats in store. John Blyth, a boutique dealer who specialises in rarities had an 1859 Ansell Sovereign for sale, priced at 6,500 GBP during the fair held on 4th February 2017.
Call us today to discuss your collection
Numismatics is an absorbing passion for many. It’s a great activity to be involved in. If you’re starting out on your journey as a collector, pick up the phone and speak to our experts today. We have many years of experience in guiding collectors about what to buy and we might even be able to procure many special coins of interest that you badly want for your collection. Call us today on 020 7060 9992 and speak to one of our experts.
Disclaimer: Physical Gold is in no way connected to the Bloomsbury Coin Fair, but we do wholeheartedly recommend the fair as a good place to visit for both coin enthusiasts and investors.
Numismatics. It’s not a word many people will have heard of before. Perhaps you have heard in a quiz “What do you call a coin collector?” Numismatics refers to a steadily growing group of people who are totally fascinated by coins; all sorts of coins, old and new and from all different currencies.A Numismatist is a coin collector. Numismatics involves the appreciation of craftsmanship, finish and features – when you look closely at a coin it’s surprising what you can learn. Learn more in our article about Numismatics – the study or collecting of coins medals and paper money.
Adult and child counting coins
What is numismatics?
Numismatics is actually far more interesting than you’d think. Numismatics is the study of and collection of coins, notes and other forms of currency, it’s a huge and varied topic with plenty to keep you interested.
The word “numismatics” itself comes from the Greek word “nomisma”, which means “coin”, its first known use was back in 1790. The “nom” part you may also recognise from our own word “denomination”. The numismatic art itself refers simply to the study of coins and historic money, but nowadays numismatists are also interested in medals, online currency and paper currency too. Numismatics also concerns items that are similar to coins but don’t necessarily have any economic function: things like tokens, religious items or badges.
Numismatics vs Coin Collecting – How do the Two Compare?
So, do you want to be a Numismatist or coin collector? Well, don’t worry, you can actually be both! You can be an avid coin collector without practising the study of coins (history etc). behind them, or you can learn about the field without actually doing any collecting. We compare the difference between the two below.
What is coin collecting?
Conversely, coin collectors often take enjoyment in gathering together full sets of coins depending on what they are personally interested in. These could be Beatrix Potter or London Olympics 2012 celebration coins for example, or coins marking special times in history for the Royal Family.
What does a Numismatist study or collect?
A “true” numismatist goes well beyond mere collecting, it’s a passion and takes on the form of the study of coins and education. We go on to discuss subcategories of numismatics below, but essentially a Numismatist collects and studies coins, tokens, paper money, and a range of related objects. As a general rule, a numismatist will study currency from a social, artistic or historical viewpoint.
What are the Different Subcategories of Numismatics?
Numismatics is essentially about the value of a currency, the study of currency, how we use it and exchange it, as well as the physical currency itself. It’s about rarity, methods of manufacture and history of the coins. So, what does a Numismatist collect? Numismatics can be broken down into different categories, which we discuss below:
What is Notaphily?
Notaphily – this is the collecting, study and learning of paper money such as banknotes. The word is formed from “Nota” – a Latin word for “paper Money and “Phily” a Greek word for love – so essentially it’s the “love of paper money”. In more recent times Notaphily has also started to include collecting and studying of plastic notes too.
What is Exonumia?
Exonumia – “Exo” is the Greek for “out of” and Nummus is the Latin for “coin”. These include a broad range of items such as the collecting and study of coins as well as badges, key tags, medals, military coins, tokens (e.g. arcade, bank, casino, communion, membership) and toy money. These are just a few examples of aspects of collecting and studying Exonumia.
Here at Physical Gold, we go well beyond the study of coins and make Exonumia, investment-friendly too. Why not make money from your study of coins, by speaking to us?
What is Scripophily?
Scripophily – this is the collecting and study of securities such as bond certificates, stock certificates and other negotiable financial instruments. Scripophilists will often collect based on the antiquity, scarcity and aesthetic appeal of an item. Investment principles are often in the background, but undoubtedly if managed correctly Scripophily in the long-term can make attractive investment properties. Modern Scripophily is becoming trickier as the financial services industry moves away from paper-based to electronic systems.
What coins are worth collecting?
We now analyse some of the coins, which we believe are most worth collecting.
Royal Mail coins
For a lot of British coin collectors, the Royal Mint is where it’s at. Planning for new releases and eagerly awaiting the chance to get their hands on the latest designs, they jostle to be the first to place an order for a new coin and prepare to add it to the other Royal Mint coins in their collection. Infact, did you know that the Royal Mint website ground to a halt when it made available its phenomenally popular 2017 Peter Rabbit 50p coin?
Limited Edition Collectable Coins
When it comes to collecting coins, the ones which are most sought after are ones which were only in circulation for a short time, i.e. are limited edition coins. Historically significant or especially attractive coins are also popular, and excitement is further heightened by mints that are limited in numbers or metal type, for example, a gold coin that’s usually silver. A particularly famous limited edition mint includes the recent Star Wars: The Empire Strike Back silver coin which had a mintage across the globe of just 10,000.
The 1 oz Landmarks of Britain – Trafalgar Square Silver Coin (2018) is a 50,000 mintage limited edition Royal Mail coin
Minting Error Coins
Another category of collectable coins are minting errors, these are coins, which had some sort of error during the minting process. The main categories of minting errors are:
Hub and die errors – these include double printing, die-setting errors, areas missing from the design, die breaks as well as cracks and chips, as well as many other types too
Planchet preparation errors – these include minting blank coins, clipped coins, minting coins with varying thicknesses as well as cladding and lamination flaws
Strike errors – a range of errors in the striking process
Buying minting error coins can make a great investment. This is especially the case if these coins are bought early when premiums are often lower. As the years go by and error coins become scarcer and more sought after, the premiums paid can often rise dramatically.
Coins in a jar
Is Coin Collecting a Good Investment?
When it comes to coin collecting as a way of building an investment or pension fund there are no shortcuts. It’s not a quick way to “flip” some money or make a fast buck – it’s much more long term. Old and rare coins are pretty much always worth far more than their face value.
A lot of financial advisors are even suggesting you keep between 5-10% of your investments in precious metals and rare coins. Not only will this offer a little extra security but it will give a good foundation for building future wealth. Even if the stock market was to totally flop, your collected coins will retain their value and actually likely increase as investors plump more towards commodities. It’s potentially a fascinating yet lucrative hobby.
Is it Worth Seeking Dealer Advice About Which Coins to Buy?
If you’re interested in beginning a personal coin collection or in getting into numismatics, in particular, there are many coins which are very highly regarded, so if there are particular items you have in mind it’s important to get your order in as quickly as possible.
In our opinion, it’s essential to take advice and there’s plenty available from Numismatic publications and websites as well as through talking to dealers such as Physical Gold Limited.
How Can I Invest with Physical Gold today?
So, are you interested in the study or collection of coins and perhaps starting a fantastic new coin collection of your own? In our opinion, Numismatics is more than coins study or the collecting of coins medals and paper money – it should be an investment too!
Let us get you started. Whether you’ve been collecting for years or you’re just starting to dabble, Physical Gold can help with any advice about collecting or investing in gold. Speak to us on 020 7060 9992 or send us an email so we can help.
Coin sets usually consist of proof coins. A proof coin is a coin struck using a special, high-quality minting process. These coins were historically produced for checking the production dies and for archival purposes, however nowadays these higher quality coins are often produced in greater numbers especially for coin collectors / numismatists.
Proof production usually involves polishing of the production dies and often uses chemicals to make certain parts of the design take a matt appearance, with the polished fields displaying a mirror finish. They can often be distinguished from bullion coins by their sharper rims and more defined design. An easy way to understand the different look between proof and bullion is to imagine the enhanced sharpness an HD television offers over standard definition.
Proof coins are sometimes sold in encapsulated tamper-proof plastic casing straight from the mint. The casing maintains their pristine condition, and integrity. Others may simply be presented in a wooden presentation box.
A collector’s gem – here we can see a coin set with US 1924 20 dollar gold coins
These coins are often produced in limited issue, often adding to their collectable appeal. Commonly proof coins will come in a set of several proof coins, perhaps including all fractional denominations of a certain coin. These sets are usually beautifully packaged and can make great presents.
The cost of proof coins is generally 10-25% higher than their bullion version, even though they have the same gold content and are of the same purity. When you come to sell a proof coin it is unlikely you will receive the full premium back, and for this reason these coins are not the best form of gold to purchase for investment purposes.
Coin Sets
Originally, gold proof coins were intended as pre-production samples. Traditionally the mint would produce a small range of proof copies ready to be approved by the monarch- going some way to explain why they are produced to such a superior standard of finish. Several techniques are undertaken in order to achieve an appearance that is close to flawless, with the resulting proof coins then individually inspected and packaged.
As such these types of coins are perfect for the more sentimental collector. Those with a keen interest in the history of their investments often opt for gold proof coins.
Proof coin sets like the one above are popular among numismatists
Proof Coins
Sold individually or in sets, proof coins are purchased
for a variety of purposes. Whilst they are sometimes bought as an investment, those with a keen eye for profit are morely likely to opt for bullion coins. On the other hand, coin sets are ideal as presents, keepsakes or historical artefacts. The exquisite detail of proof coins coupled with their aesthetic appeal
As a keen numismatist, it’s important to know more about proof coins. These coins are usually struck with special dies. Each coin is struck twice at the minimum and finished with special polishes. While they do not enter circulation, their look and feel are quite different from standard coinage that is not circulated. They possess an aura and lustre of their own, that makes it attractive to collectors.
Reason for proof sets
Of course, the purpose of the proof sets is to finalise the production run. The proofs are reviewed and approvals procured by the mint to ensure that the coin is suited for release. 1936 saw the first proof sets being minted and this tradition continues even today. Proof sets are popular amongst collectors, for their look as well as affordability as a type of gold investment. Numismatists prefer investing in collectable coins instead of bullion bars. These coins may be cheaper in certain cases, simply because they never entered circulation. Proof sets often come in their original packaging, which is left undisturbed by the collectors in order to enhance their value. Mints across the world have picked up on the numismatic trend of collecting proof sets and they often release a collection of proof sets aimed at the collectors.
Mint sets
Many people confuse proof sets with mint sets. They are actually two different things altogether. Unlike proof sets, there are no special dies or finishing polishes used to make these coins. Mint sets, however, do mean exactly what the name implies – that the coins are in mint condition, untouched and uncirculated. The principle is the same as mint condition vinyl LPs or collectable books that have never been taken out of their original packaging, untouched by the hands of man. This is the intrinsic value that it commands amongst collectors.
Untouched and uncirculated
Of course, they come with their original packaging intact and un-tampered. For example, the US releases complete mint sets for collectors on a yearly basis. This means that each set contains uncirculated coins struck by every US mint for that year. Currently, the US has four mints that are active. These are San Francisco, Denver Colorado, Philadelphia and West Point. Now, each set will have one mint condition, untouched and uncirculated coin of every denomination released for that particular year. Mint sets may also have old and rare coins, which makes them even more valuable and desirable to collectors. The 1996 Roosevelt Dime is a classic example of a rare coin that was never circulated and its untouched mint set commands considerable value among avid collectors and numismatists alike.
Gold Proof Coins
Experiencing a boom in collector popularity during the 1930s, minting methods have actually improved through the decades, resulting in superior proof finishes. Despite this it is not unusual to notice toning, spotting or discolouration, however they will be free from signs of wear and tear, due to not having been in circulation.
Talk to our gold experts before investing in coin sets
At Physical Gold, our gold experts can advise you on the best deals when it comes to coin sets. Given that there is a wide variety of choice among these collectable sets, its best to have an expert advise you on the best buy for your portfolio. If you are buying a coin set from us, you can rest assured that every item we trade comes with a certificate of authenticity and a complete buyback guarantee.
Physical Gold is proud to be one of the most reputed online gold and precious metals dealers. Our numismatic experts are second to none in the quality of service and knowledge. We love speaking to customers just like you every day and our team of experts can advise you on how to build a robust and lasting gold portfolio that will truly stand the test of time. Call us now on 020 7060 9992 or contact us online by sending us an email through this link. Once a member of our team receives your message, we will be in touch right away.
The word bullion is both widely used and misinterpreted. It basically refers to bars and coins produced in mass for investment purposes. With regards to coins, the term also refers to the standard of production of coins minted after the early 1930s. These coins are generally regarded as the most cost efficient way of purchasing gold coins as their market value is determined almost exclusively by their gold content. In contrast to other types of coins such as proofs, commemorative, or historic coins, you will not pay premiums for packaging, finish or exclusivity. Physical Gold offer an easy way to buy gold coins online in the uk.
The end of using bullion coins as currency
It was around the 1930s that the use of gold coins was lifted from circulation as the major economic powers around the world decided to recall their gold reserves and discontinue the use of gold in coinage. However, this did not stop the minting of gold coins and the major mints around the world continued to issue gold coins for the purpose of collection by numismatists and investors alike. Many of these coins are available at the value of their weight in gold. However, there are also coins from this period that have witnessed a significant escalation in value due to numismatic interest. For example, a 1933 gold double eagle fetched a record £7.5mn at an auction in 2002.
Numismatists have always enjoyed collecting gold coins of collectable value. Coins that enjoy rarity and historical value have a great propensity to increase in value. This value is based on the demand of the coin itself, and not it’s weight in gold. However, needless to say, counterfeiters and rogue dealers also seize the opportunity of cashing in on such trends and there are a number of fake coins circulating in the market.
Bullion coin authenticity
When investing in bullion coins (including coin sets) as part of a portfolio, it is very important to determine whether the coin is genuine. There are internationally acclaimed coin certification agencies that can ensure that the bullion you are buying is genuine. The well-known ones across the world are the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
Getting your coin certified by one of these organisations is one way of getting it done. PCGS and NGC do appear often at important numismatic events, like the International Numismatic Convention in New York or the London based Coinex event, organised by BNTA, which has its 40th international convention due in September 2018. Collectors who want to have their coins graded, usually file their submissions in advance and collect them at the event, while networking with other collectors and viewing the displays.
Test for fake bullion coins yourself
However, there are other methods to determine whether the coin you’re buying is a fake. A coin gauge is a handy tool often used by dealers and collectors alike to detect counterfeits. Also, it is important to bear in mind that due to the unique properties of gold, coins are difficult to duplicate. Base metals have a lower density, which means that counterfeit coins would have the wrong dimensions or be underweight. Interestingly, there is even a mobile phone app that can ping the coin with sound and analyse the echo to detect a fake. In the UK, the forgery and counterfeiting act 1981 effectively outlawed the counterfeit trade. At Physical Gold, our team of numismatist experts always ascertain the genuineness of each and every coin we trade-in. We are also happy to help you ascertain the type of gold, authenticity, and the value of your gold coins, as well as guide you on how, where, and when to get the best deals on gold bullion.
The advent of modern technology has ensured a mobile app to check gold coins
Bullion coin sizes
Bullion coins are available in various fractional denominations, but the general rule of thumb is you’ll pay increasingly more as the denomination reduces. We feel the common 1oz coins and the full Sovereigns offer a great balance of divisibility and value. Because we only source the world’s most recognised bullion coins, they are always easy to trade at the tightest margins. Investors also benefit from price savings as the quantity of bullion coins they buy grows.
recognised by the Royal Mint as bullion quality as they’re issued to non-proof finish for investment purposes in laminated sheets. However, many older Sovereign coins are widely traded in today’s investment market alongside the newer coins. These coins pre-dating 1933 encompass the Sovereign heads of early Elizabeth, George V & VI, Edward VII & VIII and Queen Victoria. Due to their age and limited issue, they can be deemed to contain a degree of historical value – and may be classed as semi-numismatic.
In practice the cost of these coins is usually slightly less than their bullion cousins of the past 10-15 years as their historic value is cancelled out by their inferior condition. Just like with new cars, you tend to find that the latest year’s bullion coins may carry a slightly higher premium than ‘nearly new’ coins even though they are of identical design and condition. Our consultants will guide you as to the current premiums on these coins to ensure you assemble the best value portfolio of coins.
Below we list and describe some of the world’s best known bullion coins. The two main tax free bullion coins in the UK are the Britannia and the Sovereign. The Krugerrand is known as the world’s original bullion coin as it was the first to guarantee 1oz of pure gold.
Gold Coins
Those interested in investing in bullion have two main options – bars or coins. Whilst both have their benefits, the beauty of choosing gold bullion coins is that they offer more flexibility, especially for those planning to sell their gold coins on.
There are a variety of bullion coins in the UK, suitable for people with different aims. From rare and beautiful coins such as the Chinese Panda or American Eagle, to more common options, we’re pleased to supply an extensive range.
Buy Gold Coins online
Amongst our collection, you’ll notice some of the world’s most well recognised gold bullion coins, including the South African Gold Krugerrand. Attracting lower margins than many other coins, this makes them ideal for investment although your selection will no doubt depend upon a number of factors, including budget, taste and use.
Bullion coins are quite lucrative if the investments are managed properly
Bullion Coins
Aside from the type of coin itself, another consideration for those looking to buy gold coins online should be their storage. Naturally security will be a priority, leading many to store theirs in a safe, although some do choose to keep them in their homes. Those who do opt for the latter should make sure their coins are covered by their home insurance.
It may be useful for inexperienced buyers to take advantage of our expert advice before making any purchase.
Talk to our bullion experts before investing
Investing in gold bullion can be very lucrative, as well as an absorbing and immersive experience for many buyers like yourself. It is important to get the right advice before investing your hard earned money in buying coins. At Physical Gold, our team consists of numismatics experts who possess a wealth of knowledge and years of experience in advising clients on how to make the right buying decisions when it comes to bullion. Call us today on 020 7060 9992 or get in touch online by filling out the contact form provided on our website. Our team will be happy to get in touch with you right away.
Coins are a classic heritage investment. They are popular with numismatics as well as investors looking to purchase them for their gold and silver content. British coins are particularly collectible and are highly sought after by investors. The Royal Mint is one of the most respected and prestigious Mints in the world and has been producing coins for centuries.
Sometimes coins are produced in limited numbers, perhaps to commemorate a certain event or to celebrate a very special occasion. Limited edition coins can be worth large sums of money and due to often being produced in smaller numbers their value has the potential to rise over time.
Coins like the 1oz Gold Unicorn Queens Beast are likely to be highly popular in the future
Popular all around the world
British coins are among the most widely collected coins across the globe meaning they are also relatively liquid. As an investor, this can benefit you should you ever need to sell your coins quickly, as there is no shortage of buyers for limited edition British coins.
People who invest in coins for their rarity or collector’s appeal are often attracted to the unique history behind them. When you hold an old coin, you are touching something that has passed through many pairs of hands over a period of generations making them a truly inspiring investment. Britain’s rich and varied history means that its coins are a very attractive proposition for many collectors. The country has been producing coins for thousands of years which means there are hundreds of different sizes, shapes, and designs to collect. Some of the earliest examples found in Britain date back to Ancient Roman times.
Market Value
Due to the enduring popularity of British coins, their value has been known to fluctuate greatly, meaning there is potential to make a great profit. Some limited editions coins can fetch prices reaching thousands of pounds and their performance can top that of many stocks and shares. Recently the value of many commemorative coins has soared in price. Last year, the Stanley Gibbons GB200 Rare Coin Index, which measures the performance of a representative sample of 200 rare British coins, rose more than 6%. Over the last ten years, the index has risen by an average of 195%.
Design
The Royal Mint has some of the best engravers/designers in the world and some of their coins are stunning to behold. Many limited-edition coins feature a particular design or image that sets them apart from standard circulation coins. For example, a commemorative coin might feature an image that has relevance to that particular event.
Coins like the Silver Britannia Privy Mark Snake are likely to be popular in the future due to their limited mintage
Gold and Silver Content
Many individuals invest in British Coins because
of their gold and silver content. Up until 1931, British coins were still minted to the gold standard whilst coins containing genuine silver were still in general circulation right up until 1946. Today the Royal Mint still produces gold and silver coins. These are aimed exclusively at investors and include bullion coins such as the Gold Lunar Series. (See below)
The Royal Mint
Coins produced by the Royal Mint tend to have added investment appeal. They are one of the oldest and most established Mints in the world having been producing coins since AD 886. Coins produced by the Royal Mint (such as the Britannia) which qualify as legal tender are also free of capital gains tax when sold.
Invest in limited edition British coins through Physical Gold
First struck back in 1910, this vintage coin has grown in value and gained a following in the century since it was originally produced. Here is a look at the heritage and pedigree the King George V half sovereign represents, and the bright future it’s set to enjoy.
King George V half sovereign obverse and reverse
History of the King George V Half Sovereign
When King George V came to the throne in 1910, Britain was a global superpower, unknowingly sitting on a precipice of events that would eventually lead to the start of the First World War just a few years later.
This, in part, is the reason that the King George V half sovereign holds so much significance. It was quite literally the poster boy for the war efforts once the fighting had begun, forming an important part of the campaign to get people to invest in a war loan to bolster the finances of the nation as a whole. It was also used, along with the larger gold sovereign, to pay the countries war debts to the US.
Wartime poster encouraging gold sovereign investment
The strong historical associations that the coin enjoys today have much to do with the way that gold coinage was changing in Britain when it was initially produced.
The country was leading the world in terms of minting gold coins, so much so that economists and politicians alike were concerned about having such a large proportion of the gold in the country proliferated in this way.
Global reach
The sovereign was envisaged as becoming a gold coin with global reach, reinforcing Britain’s power and consolidating its influence worldwide. However, this half-sovereign would be the last of its kind to enter general circulation, as the switch to banknotes began and fewer precious metals were used for coinage.
The final King George V half sovereign was struck in 1924, but its popularity during its time in production was enough to secure its lasting impact and collectability.
King George V Half Sovereign Design
This coin features Bertram Mackennal’s portrait of the monarch himself on the obverse and Pistrucci’s iconic depiction of St. George defeating the cowering dragon on the reverse. As such the King George V half sovereign is very much in keeping with the classic design format adopted for coinage of this kind ever since their inception.
Future of the King George V Half Sovereign
As with many half sovereign coins, this King George V example is available in various quantities. Whether you are a collector looking for a single coin, or an investor who is interested in how it will appreciate over the years, there are options for you.
Enhanced profit potential
At the moment its value is equivalent to that of similarly aged half sovereigns, including the Queen Victoria half sovereign and the King Edward VII half sovereign. However, it is arguably a coin that has the opportunity to increase in value more consistently than its contemporaries.
The future appreciation of the King George V half sovereign will have a lot to do with how its historic significance is perceived in years to come. Its associations with the First World War, the golden age of British coinage and the eventual end of the general circulation of gold coins leave it in a great position to build a stronger reputation.
Collectable gold coins of this era have even been found squirrelled away for safekeeping in some unusual hiding places. This makes it a good idea to carefully plan where to store your investment.
Speak to us for gold coin investment guidance
If you are considering investing in gold coins which are valuable for their historic importance as well as their precious metal content, speak to Physical Gold’s expert advisors today. You can call us on 020 7060 9992 or use the contact form on our site to get an email response.
British coinage has a unique history dating back to the second century AD when coins were used in trading by Celtic tribes of Britain and Gaul. British coinage became far more regulated after the introduction of the coinage act in 1816 and the standardisation of the pound’s value in terms of gold and silver. In this article, we’ll look at 12 of the most valuable and rare British coins that you’d really wish were in your portfolio.
1. King Edward III Florin – 1344
This rare coin is also known as the double leopard since the coin depicts two leopard heads on either side of the king. Edward III acceded to the throne of England in 1327. Before him, his father Edward II had tried to subjugate the Scots and failed. Therefore, Edward took it upon himself to become a powerful and fearsome ruler to unify the kingdom. He also believed that England could prosper from being a prominent military force in Europe at the time and this coin was his attempt to create a currency that would be used across the continent, bringing much trade across the shores. The 1344 Florin was a coin with great design and appearance, but it failed as it had less gold and was not accepted by the merchants of the time. Today there are only three known coins in existence and in July 2006, it fetched £460,000 at an auction. It is therefore considered to be an extremely rare and valuable British coin. It can be seen on display at the British Museum.
One of the rarest of rare coins of British origin, the coin is a 3-pound piece, which was the highest denomination minted during the hammered coinage era. The coin was introduced during the English civil war and shows the King with a sword, as well as an olive branch. The image is interpreted as the King’s prayer for peace alongside his preparedness for battle. A 1643 triple unite coin was sold for £105,000 in 2016.
A 1644 version of the Charles I triple unite from the National Numismatic Collection
3. King Charles II petition crown – 1663
At the time of the accession of King Charles II to the throne of England in 1660, the need of the hour was to replace the existing coinage of Oliver Cromwell. A new design was thus created by Thomas Simon, medallist for the King. He made a petition for a new design and presented it to the King. Although the coin was never introduced, it is heralded as one of the finest examples of coin engravings ever made. One of these coins was auctioned in 2007 for £207,000.
4. Queen Anne Vigo five guinea – 1703
Queen Anne took over as the British monarch in 1703 at a time when the Empire was on the path of conquest across the world and her navy ruled the high seas. With a new Monarch in place and Britannia ruling the waves, a new coinage was required. However, at the time the country, in the process of financing global wars, was severely lacking in finance. There was a shortage of gold. The Royal Mint used gold which was captured from the Spanish galleons at the battle of Vigo Bay and minted a 5 guinea coin to commemorate the British victory. Today, there are less than 15 such coins in existence out of the original 20 minted at the time. The coin fetched £296,160 at an auction in 2012 and recently sold for £225,000 in 2016.
The Queen Victoria 5 pound coin features the artwork of ‘Una and the lion’ on the reverse
5. Queen Anne five guinea – 1706
Queen Anne, who ruled between 1702 and 1714 was the ruling Monarch when the union of England and Scotland happened in 1707 to form Great Britain. The 1706 coin was a new coin minted at the time to reflect the power of the new state. This 5 guinea piece is today considered to be a historic coin of considerable value. It was recently valued at £30,000 at an auction in Baldwin’s.
Learn about “Understanding the gold price per oz” in this Physical Gold Ltd YouTube video.
6. King George III sovereign – 1819
During August to November 1819, the Royal Mint struck only 3,574 King George III 1819 sovereigns, produced in five batches. Interestingly, for reasons unknown, the gold used to mint the sovereigns were not procured from the Bank of England, as per the standard procedure. This gold came from private financiers – mainly companies based in the city of London at the time. Since only a few were produced, the coins became rare within the next two years. It is believed that by 1821, only two such coins remained. Today, there are just 10 in existence, making it one of the rarest and one of the finest British milled sovereigns around. In May 2013, when the Bentley collection was auctioned, one of these coins fetched £186,000.
7. Queen Victoria five pounds gold coin – 1839
These unique Queen Victoria 5 pound coins feature the motif of ‘Una and the lion’ on the reverse and are considered to be one of the finest British coins in existence. These gold coins are from the Queen’s coronation set. At an auction in 2014, one of these 1839 coins commanded a price of AU$141,000. The auctioneer Baldwin’s of St. James recently set a record new high price for this coin when it sold for £340,000.
8. King George V sovereign London mint – 1917
This gold sovereign was released at the time of the First World War and very few were produced. It had a value of one pound sterling and was in circulation prior to 1932. When the gold standard was lifted, this coin was phased out and due to its limited production numbers at the time, it has become a rarity today. It is valued at approximately £15,000.
9. King George V penny – 1933
Back in 1933, pennies were in abundance,
so the mint decided not to strike anymore. However, the tradition at the time demanded that new pennies should be placed under the foundation stones of new buildings. Due to this reason, the Royal Mint struck around 6 to 7 new coins, some of which ended up under new buildings and the others in the Mint’s collection. The rarity of this coin, therefore, stems from the limited numbers that were produced. These coins were never intended for circulation and today, it is considered to be one of the rarest British coins around, with an approximate value of £72,000.
10. King Edward VIII brass threepence – 1937
The coin is extremely rare as only a few were made by the Royal Mint as a new experimental design. However, before they could go into circulation, the King abdicated the throne to marry American commoner Wallis Simpson. As a result, it is believed that only around 10 were ever struck. The coin is a 12 sided coin with an image of a thrift plant on the reverse. They are highly valued today due to their rarity and auctioneers have set the price at around £30,000.
11. The new two pence coin – 1983
The UK changed its currency system and moved to the decimal system in 1971. After the shift, all 2p coins has the inscription ‘New Pence’ on the reverse of each coin. This practice continued for the next ten years, after which the Royal Mint decided that it was unnecessary to continue the practice any longer. Therefore, in 1982 the words ‘New Pence’ was replaced with ‘Two Pence’. Interestingly, the Royal Mint erroneously produced a limited number of 2p coins in 1983 that had the old inscription. Needless to say, this error created a limited-edition rarity and the coins found their way into the hands of collectors. Each of these coins could well be worth £650 today.
The Royal Mint has been at the heart of British coinage history for centuries
12. London Olympic 50p coin – 2012
The Royal Mint released coins with 29 different designs in order to commemorate the 2012 London Olympiad. As some were released in smaller numbers, they have become rare and command a good price from collectors. One of the rare ones is the original aquatic coin which depicts water passing over the swimmer’s face. Only 600 of this design was ever released. An original coin like this could fetch up to £3,000 according to prices on eBay.
Call our numismatic experts to find out more about valuable British coins
At Physical Gold, our team of numismatic experts can give you invaluable guidance on all kinds of valuable coins. The team has several man-years of experience and are constantly involved in research to ensure that we can guide coin enthusiasts just like you.
Live Gold Spot Price in Sterling.
Gold is one of the densest of all metals. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity. It is also soft and the most malleable and ductile of the elements; an ounce (31.1 grams; gold is weighed in troy ounces) can be beaten out to 187 square feet (about 17 square metres) in extremely thin sheets called gold leaf.
Silver Information
Live Silver Spot Price in Sterling.
Silver (Ag), chemical element, a white lustrous metal valued for its decorative beauty and electrical conductivity. Silver is located in Group 11 (Ib) and Period 5 of the periodic table, between copper (Period 4) and gold (Period 6), and its physical and chemical properties are intermediate between those two metals.
Coin sets usually consist of proof coins. A proof coin is a coin struck using a special, high-quality minting process. These coins were historically produced for checking the production dies and for archival purposes, however nowadays these higher quality coins are often produced in greater numbers especially for 
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