This two-coin set is one of the "historic" issues by the Royal Mint combining a newly released coin with a historic coin taken from circulation, and celebrates the achievements of royal Mint coin designer Benedetto Pistrucci.
The mint says about it:
"Born in Rome in the late eighteenth century, Benedetto Pistrucci developed a reputation as a talented gem engraver. Word of his skills quickly reached The Royal Mint in London and his career here led to the creation of some of the world’s finest coinage and medal designs. This new set brings together two historic Sovereigns representing significant moments in the life and legacy of the famed Italian engraver. The first is dated 1855, the year of Pistrucci’s death, and features a portrait of Queen Victoria on the obverse. On the reverse of this original coin is the shield design that was in use for most of Victoria’s Sovereigns. The second coin is a Sovereign dated 2017, the year of the 200th anniversary of Pistrucci’s timeless St George and the dragon design, which features a garter edge and bicentenary privy mark. Both coins are struck in 22 carat gold, presented in a luxurious case for safekeeping, and just 499 of these sets are available."
The modern sovereign coin in the set is in bullion (Brilliant Uncirculated) grade, while the historic sovereign is in "a minimum of fine" grade. |
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