22K Yellow Gold British Sovereign Coin Pendant on Foxtail Chain
Necklace with Pendant (Coin Pendant on Chain) · Yellow Gold, classic warm tone characteristic of 22K gold coin alloys (typically alloyed with copper and a small amount of silver for durability).
Purity: 22K (91.6% pure gold), standard fineness for British Sovereign gold coins; the chain may test at 18K or 22K depending on regional manufacturing standards.
Type
Necklace with Pendant (Coin Pendant on Chain)
Purity
22K (91.6% pure gold), standard fineness for British Sovereign gold coins; the chain may test at 18K or 22K depending on regional manufacturing standards.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, classic warm tone characteristic of 22K gold coin alloys (typically alloyed with copper and a small amount of silver for durability).
Weight
Estimated total weight is approximately 15 to 25 grams, with the 1917 Sovereign coin accounting for 7.32 grams of pure gold (7.98 grams total coin weight), and the foxtail chain adding the remaining weight.
Description
An exquisite and historically rich piece featuring a genuine 1917 British Sovereign gold coin mounted as a pendant, suspended from a flexible and lustrous 22K yellow gold foxtail chain. The obverse or reverse displays the iconic Saint George slaying the dragon motif with sharp relief, combining numismatic heritage with classic fine jewelry styling. This timeless pairing serves as both a wearable statement of wealth and a treasured piece of British history.
Key Features
Authentic 1917 dated British Sovereign coin pendant, highly detailed St. George and Dragon motif, paired with a durable and fluid foxtail chain offering high tensile strength and a luxurious tubular drape.
Color & Finish
Rich, deep yellow hue with a characteristic satin-to-matte finish on the coin's relief and a high polish on the foxtail chain links, showing typical gentle surface wear consistent with age.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the classic George and Dragon design with the year 1917 clearly visible. The suspension loop and chain may bear standard British or international assay marks indicating karat purity, though they are not fully legible in the image.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard British Sovereign coin diameter of approximately 22.05 mm and thickness of 1.52 mm. The foxtail chain is estimated at 18 to 20 inches in length with a width of approximately 2.5 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The piece relies entirely on the numismatic relief engraving of the coin and the intricate woven pattern of the chain for its decorative appeal.
Clasp & Closure
Standard lobster claw or spring ring clasp typical of fine gold chains, securely fastening the necklace while matching the warm yellow gold tone of the links.
Chain & Links
Foxtail chain (also known as Siena or Square-link chain), featuring densely packed V-shaped woven links that offer exceptional flexibility, a smooth tubular drape, and a sophisticated textured appearance.
Craftsmanship Details
The coin features a traditional high-pressure struck mint finish with sharp relief details. The foxtail chain demonstrates advanced micro-engineering, with tightly interlocked V-shaped links meticulously soldered to ensure seamless flexibility and enduring strength.
Authentication Indicators
The coin exhibits precise diagnostic details of a genuine 1917 Sovereign including lettering proportions, shield/ground line details, and correct weight-to-size ratio. Professional testing via XRF spectrometer and specific gravity is recommended to verify exact gold purity of the mounting and chain.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom (Coin minted by the Royal Mint in London or a branch mint); chain origin likely British or Italian, renowned for fine chain-making craftsmanship.
Era & Period
Twentieth Century (Coin dated 1917, World War I era; the mounting and chain may be contemporary to the coin or added later during the mid-to-late 20th century).
Age Estimate
The coin is strictly dated 1917 (over 100 years old, qualifying as an antique), while the necklace mounting could range from 1920 to the late 20th century.
Cultural Significance
Gold sovereigns represent the pinnacle of British numismatic history and economic power. Wearing a sovereign coin pendant has long been a tradition symbolizing prosperity, heritage, and a hedge against economic uncertainty.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent vintage condition. The coin exhibits minor surface wear consistent with circulation or careful handling prior to mounting, while the chain retains strong structural integrity with smooth articulation and clean links.
Value Estimate
Value is determined by the combined melt value of the 22K gold content plus a numismatic premium for the 1917 Sovereign coin and secondary market value for the gold foxtail chain, typically commanding a 15% to 30% premium over raw melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently using warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, abrasive polishing compounds, and ultrasonic cleaners if the coin is securely mounted with delicate prongs. Store flat or hung in an anti-tarnish jewelry pouch.
Similar Items
South African Krugerrand pendant necklaces, American Gold Eagle coin pendants, and Byzantine chain coin necklaces. Key differences lie in the specific coin denomination, country of origin, and the weave style of the accompanying chain.
Interesting Facts
British Sovereigns were once known as the 'chief coin of the world,' widely circulated across the British Empire and used internationally for trade. The 1917 Sovereign was minted during the height of World War I, making it a tangible artifact from a pivotal global turning point.