22K Gold George V Sovereign Coin (1918) in Silver or White Gold Octagonal Bezel Pendant
Pendant (Coin Jewelry) · Yellow Gold (Coin). The outer bezel is a contrasting white metal (Silver/White Gold). This creates a two-tone aesthetic common in coin mounting.
Purity: The central coin is 22K (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper), which is the standard fineness for British Sovereigns. The mounting appears to be a different metal, likely silver or low-karat white gold.
Type
Pendant (Coin Jewelry)
Purity
The central coin is 22K (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper), which is the standard fineness for British Sovereigns. The mounting appears to be a different metal, likely silver or low-karat white gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Coin). The outer bezel is a contrasting white metal (Silver/White Gold). This creates a two-tone aesthetic common in coin mounting.
Weight
The standard weight for a full Sovereign is 7.98g. Including the bezel and solder, the total weight is likely between 9.5g and 11g.
Description
An iconic 1918 British Sovereign gold coin featuring the classic St. George and the Dragon motif. The coin is historically significant as it dates to the final year of WWI. It is housed in a modern, masculine octagonal bezel of white metal, transforming a piece of currency into a bold fashion statement.
Key Features
Features the 1918 date and the Pistrucci relief. The non-circular octagonal mounting is a distinctive design choice that secures the coin at eight points.
Color & Finish
The gold coin has a rich, deep yellow honey tone characteristic of 22K gold. The surface shows a high-relief strike with significant circulation wear and a soft satin patina. The bezel has a polished metallic finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features Benedetto Pistrucci’s 'St. George and the Dragon' design and the date 1918. Purity stamps for the mounting may be located on the reverse or the bale (not visible in image).
Dimensions Estimate
The coin itself is 22.05mm in diameter. The octagonal bezel likely brings the total diameter to approximately 26mm-28mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The focus is purely on the numismatic relief and the geometric bezel framing.
Clasp & Closure
The item is a pendant; it likely features a bale (loop) at the top (partially obscured) to allow it to slide onto a chain.
Chain & Links
N/A - This is a standalone pendant without an attached chain. The octagonal mounting is a rigid frame held by pressure and points of solder.
Craftsmanship Details
The coin is a high-pressure die strike. The mounting appears to be a mass-produced jewelry bezel, likely cast and then hand-set with a jeweler's press to secure the coin edges.
Authentication Indicators
The design corresponds exactly to the 1918 Sovereign. The gold color is consistent with 22K alloy. Note: Professional testing is required as many Sovereigns were counterfeited in the mid-20th century in the Middle East using real gold but unofficial dies.
Origin & Maker
The coin was minted by the British Royal Mint (though 1918 Sovereigns were specifically minted in Bombay, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, and Ottawa; a mint mark would be above the date). The bezel is likely a third-party jeweler's mount.
Era & Period
The coin is from the World War I era (George V). The octagonal mounting suggests a 1970s or 1980s aesthetic when coin jewelry was highly popular.
Age Estimate
Coin: 106 years old (1918). Mounting: Likely 30-50 years old (circa 1975-1995).
Cultural Significance
Sovereigns have been recognized as a global trade currency for over 200 years and are often worn as 'status' jewelry in UK, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cultures.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The coin shows moderate circulation wear, particularly on the highest points of St. George's figure. The bezel appears secure. The date remains legible.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on gold melt value (approx. $550-$650 depending on spot price) plus a 10-20% premium for the jewelry mounting and numismatic date.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the bezel is silver. Gold is soft; avoid wearing with heavy-duty steel tools or in gym settings to prevent scratching the 22K surface.
Similar Items
Krugerrand pendants, American Liberty pendants, or bezel-set medals. Unlike modern bullion, this has specific historical numismatic value.
Interesting Facts
The 1918 Sovereign is particularly famous because the London mint did not produce them that year; they were only struck at branch mints in India, Australia, and Canada.