What is Sovereign Coin Jewellery?

The History of Sovereign Coins

The history of Sovereign coins traces back to late 15th century England, with the first sovereign coins minted in 1489 at the request of King Henry VII, as a symbol of royal power and authority. Featuring the reigning monarch's portrait, these coins were crafted from gold and intended to circulate as legal tender. However, production of Sovereign coins ceased during the reign of the Tudor Monarchs and they were not minted again for over 200 years. It wasn't until 1817, following the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo, that sovereign coins were reintroduced with a new design featuring St. George slaying the dragon. This iconic design remains a hallmark of Sovereign coins to this day. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Sovereign coins continued to be minted in various sizes and denominations, including the one-pound sterling denomination, as well as half, double, and quintuple Sovereigns.

What is a Full Sovereign?

A full Sovereign, often simply called a Sovereign coin, carries incredible historical and monetary worth. Its value can fluctuate based on factors such as the purity of the gold and its historical significance. Typically made from high-purity 22-carat gold, Sovereign coins are sought after both as collectables and investments in precious metals. Full Sovereigns have been issued in different sizes, with the one-pound sterling denomination being the most prevalent. Coveted by collectors, investors, and numismatics enthusiasts, they are adored for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and enduring aesthetic appeal.

What is a Half Sovereign?

Just like the full Sovereign, the half Sovereign is minted by the Royal Mint of England and bears the image of the British monarch on one side. However, the two differ only in the denomination and legal tender value. The half Sovereign is a smaller denomination coin and contains half the amount of gold as a full Sovereign. Despite their smaller value, half Sovereigns are still considered valuable and are sought after by collectors and investors due to their gold content, historical significance, and often more accessible price in comparison to full Sovereigns. They offer a way for individuals to invest in gold in smaller increments while still owning a piece of numismatic history.

What are Krugerrand Coins?

The Krugerrand, originating in South Africa and first minted in 1967, is a gold bullion coin crafted from South African gold. Named after both Paul Kruger, the former president of the South African Republic, and the South African currency, the rand, Krugerrand coins feature distinctive elements that set them apart from other fancy coins. Comprising 22-karat gold, with 91.67% gold and 8.33% copper alloy, they possess a unique reddish appearance. Available in various denominations, with the most common being one troy ounce, they are also issued in fractional sizes. Featuring a portrait of Paul Kruger on the obverse and a springbok, a national symbol of South Africa, on the reverse, their design has remained largely consistent since its inception. Krugerrands are globally recognised and valued for their gold content. Sought after primarily as investment opportunities, they offer accessibility to physical gold investment and are therefore a popular choice among precious metal investors.

What are Commemorative Coins?

Commemorative coins are special coins minted to honour specific people, events, anniversaries, or significant historical milestones. They feature several key characteristics that differentiate them from regular circulation coins meant for everyday transactions. Firstly, they are often produced in limited quantities, meaning that their exclusivity enhances their desirability among collectors. Their unique designs, often incorporate relevant symbols or images, adding to their uniqueness and appeal. Usually crafted from precious metals like gold or silver, these coins hold their value and attract collectors and investors. While some commemorative coins may have legal tender status, their face value is usually lower than their actual worth due to their collectable value. They are usually issued by government mints or authorized institutions, increasing the appeal to collectors for their historical significance and limited availability. Often cherished for their beauty and potential investment value, commemorative coins hold a special place among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Sovereign Coin Jewellery

Sovereign coin jewellery incorporates the Sovereign coin into various types of jewellery including pendants, bracelets, rings, and earrings. These regal pieces often feature the Sovereign coin as the centrepiece of the design, occasionally setting the coins within a bezel or frame to prominently showcase the historical element.

The obvious connection to both history and royalty, adds prestige and sophistication to the Sovereign jewellery pieces. They also offer a unique way for the owner to express appreciation for both numismatics and British heritage. Sovereign coin jewellery can also be personalised to individual tastes, making it a popular accessory choice for collectors, enthusiasts, and those intrigued by fine jewellery and historical pieces.

Sovereign Necklaces & Pendants

Sovereign pendants and necklaces are popular among jewellery enthusiasts, featuring the sovereign coin as the design's focal point. Sovereign necklaces and pendants vary in style, from more simplistic designs that incorporate a single coin, to more elaborate pieces that feature multiple coins or additional embellishments like gemstones or intricate metalwork. Some necklaces may feature the coin suspended from a chain, while others may incorporate the coin into a larger pendant design.

Sovereign Bracelets

Sovereign bracelets are also an option for anyone interested in incorporating sovereign coins into their jewellery collection. They come in a variety of styles, ranging from delicate chain bracelets with a single coin charm to chunky statement pieces with multiple coins arranged along the length of the bracelet. Other styles feature coins set within links or charms, allowing them to move freely on the wrist, and can also include other materials such as gemstones or decorative metalwork to enhance the overall design.

Sovereign Rings

Sovereign rings are a classic choice adding a touch of regal elegance to your jewellery collection. Some styles have the coin set into the ring band, allowing it to be showcased prominently upon being worn, while other styles feature the coin set into a bezel or frame to be worn as a statement ring. Sovereign rings come in various styles, including classic signet rings with a single coin on the face, as well as more modern designs with the coin set into intricate metalwork or surrounded by gemstones.

Sovereign Earrings

Sovereign earrings offer a unique way to showcase these historic coins. They may feature coins as dangles, studs, or even as part of intricate drop earrings. Like other types of Sovereign jewellery, earrings can vary in style and design, from classic and timeless to bold and eye-catching.

Sovereign Coins & Jewellery at Ramsdens

Explore our extensive selection of gold coins and Sovereign jewellery here at Ramsdens. Featuring a variety of styles that embody the everlasting charm of Sovereign coins and jewellery, our regal range includes an array of vintage and modern pre-owned pieces. Adding Sovereign coin jewellery to your collection not only represents a valuable investment but also introduces a timeless elegance to your style, our second-hand jewellery range offers something for everyone.