British Victoria 'Young Head' Gold Sovereign Pendant on 18K Yellow Gold Cable Chain
Coin Pendant and Necklace · Yellow Gold. The coin features the classic deep orange-yellow hue of copper-alloyed 22K gold, while the chain displays a slightly brighter 18K yellow gold finish.
Purity: 22K (91.67%) for the Sovereign coin; 18K (75%) for the chain and bezel mount. The coin is a standard 22-karat gold purity used for British bullion.
Type
Coin Pendant and Necklace
Purity
22K (91.67%) for the Sovereign coin; 18K (75%) for the chain and bezel mount. The coin is a standard 22-karat gold purity used for British bullion.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The coin features the classic deep orange-yellow hue of copper-alloyed 22K gold, while the chain displays a slightly brighter 18K yellow gold finish.
Weight
Total estimated weight: 15-18 grams. This includes the standard Sovereign weight (7.98g), the bezel mount (approx. 2-3g), and the medium-gauge chain (approx. 5-7g).
Description
This elegant pendant showcases a historic Queen Victoria 'Young Head' Gold Sovereign, securely housed in a minimal four-prong gold bezel. Suspended from a robust 18K yellow gold cable chain, it blends numismatic history with wearable luxury. The coin's deep gold tone contrasts beautifully with the polished frame, making it a statement piece for both collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
Key Features
Portrait of Queen Victoria with hair in a bun (Young Head type); secure four-prong 'coin-safe' mount; high-purity 22K gold content in the center; versatile and durable cable chain.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow finish. The coin shows a satin, numismatic strike luster with circulating wear. The bezel has a high-polish finish, and the chain has a bright, reflective gloss.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected stamps: '750' or '18K' on the chain clasp and pendant bail. The coin itself lacks modern hallmarks but is identified by the 'VICTORIA DEI GRATIA' lettering and date (not fully visible).
Dimensions Estimate
Coin diameter: 22.05mm (Standard Sovereign size). Chain length: approximately 18 to 20 inches with 2mm wide links. Bezel adds roughly 2mm to the total pendant width.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The piece relies entirely on the aesthetic of the gold bullion coin and the structural gold work.
Clasp & Closure
Features a classic spring ring or lobster claw clasp common for late 20th-century cable chains. The jump ring appears soldered for added security.
Chain & Links
Open-link cable chain (also known as a trace chain). Features uniform, oval-shaped links with a flat-sided profile for increased sparkle. Hand-assembled look with machine-made consistency.
Craftsmanship Details
The bezel is designed to hold the coin without damaging its edge (non-destructive mounting). The chain links are well-soldered with a consistent thickness, providing a smooth drape.
Authentication Indicators
The coin design matches the 22.05mm Royal Mint spec. Color of 22K gold is distinct from the 18K mount. The 'Young Head' relief is sharp but shows authentic age-related smoothing. No visible casting bubbles or off-color plating.
Origin & Maker
Coin: Royal Mint (United Kingdom). Mount/Chain: Likely European or British manufacture, possibly indicated by 'leboncoin' watermark suggesting a French secondary market origin.
Era & Period
Modern assembly with a Victorian Era (1837-1887) 'Young Head' coin. The mounting style and chain indicate a late 20th-century (1970s-1990s) jewelry assembly.
Age Estimate
Coin: Struck circa 1871-1885 based on the 'Young Head' portrait. Jewelry assembly: Circa 1980-2000.
Cultural Significance
Wearing gold coins is a long-standing tradition signifying wealth and heritage, particularly in British and European cultures where Sovereigns are often given as christening or wedding gifts.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The coin shows typical surface contact marks (bag marks) and slight softening of the details consistent with a secondary market specimen. The chain and bezel are in excellent structural condition with no visible kinks.
Value Estimate
Estimated $900 - $1,100 USD. Value is heavily driven by the gold melt value (approx. $600 for the coin alone) plus the 18K gold weight and a jewelry premium.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical dips. Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Check the prongs periodically to ensure the coin remains secure. Store separately to prevent the coin surface from being scratched by other jewelry.
Similar Items
South African Krugerrand pendants, Austrian Ducat necklaces, or American Gold Eagle pendants. These alternatives vary in diameter and gold purity (Krugerrands are also 22K, while Ducats are 23.75K).
Interesting Facts
The Gold Sovereign is one of the world's most famous coins, often referred to as the 'chief coin of the world' during the height of the British Empire. Victorian Sovereigns were used for trade from London to India.