Now the page turns once again and that story begins anew, as William Wyon’s dramatic St George & the Dragon takes centre stage as the definitive design for our 2024 Sovereign Collection. This faithful reproduction of Wyon’s masterpiece has been created by our expert team who have combined traditional craftsmanship, techniques that would have been familiar to Wyon himself, with the very latest in minting technologies to capture every fine detail in our highest quality Proof finish.

The Story of Artistry and Rivalry

The narrative of the Sovereign is woven with tales of artistry and rivalry, dating back to the Great Recoinage of 1816. A competition between the defining coin engravers of the 19th Century, Benedetto Pistrucci and William Wyon. Leading to the iconic image of St George slaying a dragon, symbolising victory over adversity. The tensions between these two masters were eventually eased, creating a harmonious collaboration that contributed to the coin's enduring legacy.

This collection pays tribute to the rich history of the Sovereign, struck in 22 carat gold to specifications dating back to the Great Recoinage of 1816. The connection between this contemporary Sovereign and its 19th Century predecessor is not only preserved but enhanced.

Previously Issued Sovereigns 2023

The Sovereign's journey with the 2023 collection, marked the first release during the reign of His Majesty King Charles III. Celebrating the heritage and heraldry of the King's family history, the Royal Arms take centre stage, making it the largest coin in the collection.

The partnership with The East India Company further enriches the Sovereign's history, reaching back to the Great Recoinage of 1816. Today, Sovereigns are issued in collaboration with St Helena Government, carrying classical and traditional designs. The 2023 collection symbolises a significant moment in King Charles III's reign and pays tribute to the lineage of the Sovereign.

Hand engraved by expert medallist Elles Kloosterman, each Sovereign denomination has taken hours of delicate dedication to create a series of completely unique Sovereigns capturing and emphasising each detail of this iconic symbol. Each coin is surrounded by a Latin inscription “DIEU ET MON DROIT”, meaning “God and My Right”.

The significance of the Royal Arms and the Monarchy

The Royal Arms represents the Head of State in the United Kingdom, currently His Majesty King Charles III.The arms find their place on structures and services representing the Crown, such as UK courtrooms and the nation's coins. Formally recognised as 'His Majesty’s Government,' the British Government proudly displays these arms on Embassy entrances and British passports.

At its core, a shield showcases the national symbols of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, upheld by the Lion of England and the Unicorn of Scotland. Encircled by a garter displaying the motto “HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE” (“Evil to him who evil thinks”), the Lion and Unicorn rest on a grassy bank above the monarch's motto for the United Kingdom, “DIEU ET MON DROIT”, meaning “God and my right”.

Symbols of Heraldry & Heritage

Fig I: The Lion Of England:

One of the Royal family’s oldest symbols dating back to King Richard I, the ‘Lionheart’. It stands on the right-hand side of the shield and is known as the ‘Dexter Supporter’.

Fig II: The Unicorn of Scotland:

Believed to symbolise bravery, innocence and intelligence, it stands on the left-hand side of the shield, known as the ‘Sinister Supporter’.

Fig III: The St. Edward’s Crown:

One of the world’s most recognisable crowns, it is the centrepiece of the Crown Jewels, securely displayed at the Tower of London to the delight of the millions of visitors.