One of the rarest reverse designs in Britain's coinage history
The William IV sovereign features the unusual 'Crowned Shield' design on the reverse. Most sovereigns you'll think of feature the familiar St George and the Dragon design. But this sovereign is different. It depicts Jean Baptiste Merlen's 'Crowned Shield', making it even more desirable to the astute collector.
During the reign of William IV, the Royal Mint had two established and now legendary engravers - Benedetto Pistrucci and William Wyon. However, in 1820, Frenchman Jean Merlen arrived at the mint. He'd been recommended as "a skillful engraver on steel, and particularly in the arms and ornamental work usually struck on the reverse of coins." Merlen's is one of the most highly rated yet strangely least well-known reverse designs to grace a British coin. A facet that makes it particularly desirable to knowledgeable collectors.
Add this sought-after sovereign to your collection.
The 'Crowned Shield' has only been seen a handful of times, so your William IV sovereign will really stand out in your collection. It really is an exceptional coin and a coin to cherish both today and in the future by your children and grandchildren.
Specifications
Metal: 22 Carat Gold
Diameter: 22mm, Weight: 7.98g
Obverse: William Wyon
Reverse: Johann Baptiste Merlen
William IV Gold Sovereign
Price £1,645.00
