Isle of Man, 2005 Sovereign.
$1,483
NZNDA member
The 2005 sovereign is a coin struck in 22 carat gold by the Royal Mint. The obverse was the fourth definitive UK coin portrait by Rank-Broadley. Ian Rank-Broadley said he wanted to “maximize its impact on smaller coins” by making the portrait as large as possible. A crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara, legend around complete the design. The reverse of the 2005 gold sovereign features a modern interpretation of St George and the dragon. This original and eye catching designed was created by heraldic artist Timothy Noad. The design is centered around a crusader shield with Saint George’s Cross, protecting a sword-wielding Saint who is about to strike a winged dragon. The 2005 design was a one-year-only change from the usual Benedetto Pistrucci portrait.
Obverse Legend: ELIZABETH·II·DEI·GRA REGINA·FID·DEF (Elizabeth II by the Grace of God Queen Defender of the Faith).
Engraver: Ian Rank-Broadley.
Reverse: A depiction of St George, carrying a sword and shield, slaying the dragon, date below.
Engraver: Timothy Noad.
Royal mint, mintage: 45,542.
Gold 22 carat, o.2354 ounces of fine gold, 7.98 grammes, 22mm, edge reeded.
Bullion coin with card.