2017 Gold Proof Half Sovereign, Pistrucci 200th Anniversary (1/2 Sov), NGC Graded PF70 Ultra Cameo

2017 Gold Proof Half Sovereign, NGC Graded PF70 Ultra Cameo. Pistrucci 200th Anniversary Special one year design.

Mintage: 4690

Edge: Milled

3.99 grams of 22 carat Gold.

In 2017, the Royal Mint celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Sovereign denomination by a return to its original design by Benedetto Pistrucci. Used only between 1817 and  1820, this rendition had the figure of St George slaying the dragon surrounded by the Garter of The Most Noble Order of the Garter - an order of chivalry founded by King Edward III of England in 1348. The Order of the Garter is dedicated to the image and arms of Saint George, England's patron saint.

These coins are in Proof FDC grade only. The bullion coins of the year had the standard reverse.

The reverse depicts an illustration of the legend of St George as the slayer of the dragon, in its original 1817 interpretation.

St George is on horseback, advancing to right, wearing a helmet and chlamys (cape, or cloak) fastened in front by a fibula, and holding a broken lance. His left hand clutches the rein of the horse's bridle, and he does not wear armour, other than on his lower legs and feet, with his toes bare. The saint's horse appears to be half attacking, half shrinking from the dragon, which lies wounded by George's spear and in the throes of death. The point of the lance is broken off in the dragon’s side.

In relief in the left part of the ground line, the artist's initials B.P. (for Benedetto Pistrucci).

Surrounding the image, a Garter circlet inscribed with the Order of the Garter's motto, HONI · SOIT · QUI · MAL · Y · PENSE · (from old French: Shame on he who thinks evil).

Rest assured all photographs are of the actual coin you will receive. 

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All gold products to U.K. will be posted Royal Mail Fully Insured next day Special Delivery, overseas shipping is fully tracked and insured.

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