2000 United Kingdom Gold Sovereign, Elizabeth II Portrait
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (standard British 22K alloy with copper to improve durability)
Purity: 22K (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper); .917 fine
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
22K (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper); .917 fine
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard British 22K alloy with copper to improve durability)
Weight
7.98 grams (contains approx. 7.32 grams or 0.2354 troy oz of pure gold)
Description
An iconic gold bullion coin featuring the Fourth Definitive Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley. The reverse (not shown) traditionally features Benedetto Pistrucci's 1817 design of St George and the Dragon. This specimen represents a cornerstone of British monetary history and global gold investment.
Key Features
Features the IRB initials below the neck; beaded border; 22K durability; historical St George reverse; high liquidity in bullion markets.
Color & Finish
Brilliant uncirculated yellow gold with a slight reddish/warm hue from copper content; luster is present though evidence of surface handled wear is visible.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks (standard for coins); includes 'ELIZABETH II D G REG F D 2000' and 'IRB' (Ian Rank-Broadley) designer initials below the bust.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 22.05 mm and thickness of 1.52 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief-struck coinage
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and to prevent metal shaving/clipping
Chain & Links
Standard vertical reeded edge; sharp texture consistent with Royal Mint production
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck from steel dies; high-relief portraiture with precise lettering and uniform reeding on the edge.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (7.98g), diameter (22.05mm), and the specific 'IRB' font styling. Authenticity should be verified via ping test or specific gravity to ensure it is not a brass counterfeit, though the color appears consistent with 22K gold.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales)
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s); Fourth Portrait era of Elizabeth II
Age Estimate
Struck in 2000 (24 years old)
Cultural Significance
A symbol of British sovereignty and economic stability, often gifted at births or weddings and used as survival money in military escape kits during the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the coin shows visible surface contact marks, faint scratches, and dirt buildup near the beading. Numismatic grade estimated around EF (Extremely Fine) or AU (About Uncirculated) based on surface luster and wear.
Value Estimate
Current market value is primarily based on gold spot price plus a 3-5% premium. Approximately $550 - $620 USD depending on current market spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free capsule to prevent scratches; handle only by the edges or with cotton gloves; do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
Half-Sovereign (smaller), American Gold Eagle (different purity), Krugerrand (same 22K alloy style)
Interesting Facts
The Gold Sovereign is one of the most widely recognized gold coins in the world and was once used as legal tender in over 30 countries during the British Empire.