2004 British Gold Full Sovereign, Elizabeth II
Coin (Bullion and Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (Traditional warm orange-yellow tone due to historical copper alloy)
Purity: 22K (91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper alloy), .917 fineness
Type
Coin (Bullion and Numismatic)
Purity
22K (91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper alloy), .917 fineness
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional warm orange-yellow tone due to historical copper alloy)
Weight
7.98 grams (contains 7.322 grams or 0.2354 troy oz of pure gold)
Description
An iconic piece of British numismatic history, this 2004 Gold Sovereign features the elegant Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Struck in durable 22K gold, it represents the gold standard of international trade for over two centuries. The reverse (not visible but standard for the year) features Benedetto Pistrucci’s classic Saint George and the Dragon design. It is a highly liquid asset prized by both investors for its gold content and collectors for its historical lineage.
Key Features
Portrait by Ian Rank-Broadley, reeded edge, precise 22.05mm diameter, and the specific 2004 date marking.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow with a slight reddish undertone; satin-like luster typical of modern bullion strikes; reeded edge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not hallmarked in the jewelry sense; identified by inscriptions 'ELIZABETH II DEI GRA REGINA FID DEF' and '2004' date.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 22.05 mm; Thickness: 1.52 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features the Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley on the obverse.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; solid reeded edge typical of British coinage.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular coin with a reeded (milled) edge to prevent metal clipping.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure die-struck production; sharp relief on the portrait and crisp lettering; consistent thickness and density.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for Royal Mint lettering, precise beading around the rim, distinct 22K coloration, and absence of casting bubbles.
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; The Royal Mint (Llantrisant, Wales)
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s) - Modern Bullion Era
Age Estimate
Dated 2004 (approximately 20 years old)
Cultural Significance
Historically used as an international 'trade' coin, the Sovereign is a symbol of British monetary stability and is often gifted for weddings and christenings.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated condition; some visible surface handling marks/minor scratches; slight loss of original mint luster.
Value Estimate
Melt value approx. $550-$600 (subject to spot); Market value $620-$670 including modest collector premium.
Care & Maintenance
Handle by the edges only to avoid fingerprint acidity; store in a PVC-free plastic capsule; do not polish as it reduces numismatic value.
Similar Items
Half-Sovereign (3.99g), South African Krugerrand (also 22K), or British Britannia (0.999 fine in modern versions).
Interesting Facts
The Gold Sovereign is legal tender in the UK with a nominal face value of one pound, making it Capital Gains Tax (CGT) exempt for UK residents.