½ Sovereign - George III 1817-1820 front ½ Sovereign - George III 1817-1820 back
½ Sovereign - George III 1817-1820 photo
© Heritage Auctions

½ Sovereign - George III

 
Gold (.9167) 3.99 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
George III (1760-1820)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1817-1820
Value
½ Sovereign
Currency
Pound sterling (1158-1970)
Composition
Gold (.9167)
Weight
3.99 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
28 February 1891
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#13170
Rarity index
79%

Reverse

Crowned shield of arms, legend around.

Script: Latin

Lettering: · BRITANNIARUM REX FID: DEF:

Translation: King of the Britains Defender of the Faith

Engraver: William Wyon

Comment

As part of the Great Recoinage Act of 1817, the gold half sovereign was introduced to replace the old half guinea which had been in use since the reign of Charles II.

The gold standard for the sovereign coinage was the same as for the guinea and the standard weight of a half sovereign was 80/623 troy ounce (61.6 grains). The pure gold content was 56 312/623 grains (3.6612 g).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 1817-1820 George III ½ Sovereign coin is that it was minted during a time when the British Empire was at its peak, with the coin being used as a symbol of the empire's power and influence. The coin's design features an image of King George III, who ruled the United Kingdom during this time, and the reverse side features the iconic St. George and the Dragon design, which has been a symbol of England for centuries. The coin's gold content and intricate design make it a highly sought-after collector's item among numismatists and history enthusiasts.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
1817  2080100 - - - - - -
1818  1030200 - - - - - -
1820  35000 - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for ½ Sovereign - George III 1817-1820 coin.