Collectable and Rare Graded Gold Half Sovereigns
Gold Half Sovereigns have a unique place in Australian and world coin history. While the gold sovereign was first introduced under the reign of King Henry VII in 1489 the gold half sovereign was not produced for another 55 years until the reign of Henry VIII. Since its initial production, it has appeared in and out of issuance and as a result, it's limited mintage and controlled release have led to an increased rarity and value.
Similarly to gold sovereigns, the gold half sovereign was initially minted in Great Britain however, in response to The Australian Gold Rush, Australia was approved to begin production of these coins as the first overseas branch of London's Royal Mint. Prior to the opening of the Australian branch in 1855, these coins were imported from England.
Produced 1855 from 1918 Australian Gold Half Sovereigns are considerably rarer than their counterpart the full sovereign and are normally found more worn in condition. All Gold coins produced in Australia (1852 to 1931) were struck from solid 22ct gold (.9167%). Half Sovereigns have a weight of 3.9940 grams (.1177 troy oz)—
Australian Gold Half Sovereigns from 1855 to 1870 feature our own "Sydney Mint" design. Imperial Half Sovereigns were minted in Australia from 1871 to 1918, unlike Full Sovereigns which were minted until 1931. They were identical to those struck elsewhere, except for the distinctive Sydney (S), Melbourne (M) or Perth (P) Mintmark. They benefit from being a relatively small and highly collectable series and are considerably rarer than their English counterparts. The simple fact is that unlike the modern mass-produced issues released from the Government Mints in Canberra and Perth today, the Sovereigns are no longer produced. As time goes by, fewer remain in existence. With more and more interested Collectors in the market, fewer coins, and strong international gold bullion markets, it makes good sense to start putting some away now as a nest egg for your future.
At KJC, we’re proud to offer an extensive and valuable collection of gold half-sovereigns. The oldest and rarest half-sovereigns in our collection date from 1855, making them some of the very first coins ever minted on Australian soil!
Although the gold half sovereign was only minted in Melbourne until 1915, Sydney until 1916, and Perth until 1920, it is still legal tender. However, these precious coins are now widely sought-after as collectors’ items and are highly valuable.
Don’t miss out on this ideal chance to own a special piece of Australian history!
Kurt Jaggard Coins (KJC) Establishment & Notable Achievements:
- In 1995, Kurt Jaggard Co (KJC) Coins Australia Pty Ltd was founded by Kurt & Nathalie Jaggard
- In 1998, KJC secured an exclusive agency agreement with the French Mint during the 1998 World Cup, demonstrating our commitment to international partnerships and prestigious events.
- In 1999, KJC proudly assumed the role as the exclusive official supplier of the complete Gold Sovereign collections (1899-1931) for the momentous Perth Mint Centenary celebrations. Every coin was meticulously sourced, authenticated, and personally graded by Kurt Jaggard, highlighting our renowned reputation and dedication to Numismatic excellence.
- Leading up to the Sydney Olympics in 2000, KJC secured nationwide contracted with Thomas Cook Limited
- In 2006, KJC’s public auction division, KJC Monetary Auctions, achieved a groundbreaking sale by setting the world record with the sale of a 1920 Sydney Gold Sovereign, which realised a $582,500. Our commitment to the rare coin market’s growth and prestige is evident in this achievement.
Why choose KJC for Numismatic Coins?
- Kurt Jaggard is a renowned figure in the global Numismatic community, particularly celebrated for his expertise in the Australia Gold Sovereign series. His name carries significant recognition and is frequently cited in the sale of rare coins at leading auctions worldwide.
- Kurt Jaggards’ extensive experience extends not only to the establishment of KJC Coins Australia Pty Ltd in 1995, but also to his prior role as Managing Director and co-owner of Jaggards, a legacy coin dealership established in 1963 by his parents. Jaggards has since changed hands and is now operated by individuals unrelated to the Jaggards family’s legacy, history or expertise.
- Kurt Jaggard’s involvement, both direct and indirect, spans the majority of the world’s leading and highest-quality Australian Gold Sovereign Collections. Notable collections include the Duoro Cargo hoard, Sharps Pixley Collection, Robert Jaggard Collection among numerous others. Additionally, Kurt Jaggard has amassed a selection of the finest-known Queen Victoria Australian Gold Sovereigns. His extensive International experience and connections around the world have enabled him to assist collectors in sourcing rare pieces and completing Australian Gold Sovereign sets, both directly and indirectly with suppliers and personal collectors.
- KJC Coins Australia Pty Ltd remains a family-run, multi-generational company. Kurt and Nathalie Jaggard continue to lead the company, and their daughter, Remie Jaggard, holds the position of Business Manager for day-to-day operations. This continuity ensures that our name, vast experience, and exceptional international reputation persist for the benefit of our valued clientele.