1989 Gold Proof Sovereign – Complete Guide to Britain’s Most Iconic Modern Sovereign
The 1989 Gold Proof Sovereign is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and historically significant modern issues ever struck by The Royal Mint. Originally released to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the first gold sovereign, the coin was a bold departure from tradition - a complete redesign that paid homage to the coin’s Tudor origins while setting a new standard for craftsmanship. Today, it stands as one of the most sought-after proof sovereigns in existence.
The Story Behind the 1989 Sovereign
To mark 500 years since the very first sovereign of 1489, The Royal Mint commissioned Bernard Sindall to create a completely new design. His interpretation featured a seated crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, inspired by the medieval sovereigns of Henry VII, and a royal shield within a Tudor double rose on the reverse — a deliberate nod to the coin’s 15th-century roots.
At the time, however, collectors were divided. Many preferred the traditional St George and the Dragon design by Benedetto Pistrucci, and the 1989 release didn’t immediately attract the praise it enjoys today. Few could have predicted that it would later become one of the most desirable proof sovereigns ever produced.
Why the 1989 Sovereign is So Popular Today
Over the years, collectors have come to appreciate the 1989 sovereign’s uniqueness, symbolism and rarity. It represents a one-year-only design that broke from two centuries of tradition - the only modern sovereign without the familiar Pistrucci reverse. As a result, it’s become the centrepiece of many collections.
Its desirability has only grown thanks to a number of key factors:
- One-year-only design: The 1989 sovereign was a complete one-off, never repeated again.
- Limited mintage: Just 23,471 proof sovereigns were struck, with even lower mintages for the half, double and five-sovereign coins.
- Historical crossover: It bridges Britain’s medieval and modern coinage traditions.
- Grading rarity: PF70 examples are exceptionally scarce, commanding strong premiums.
The Different 1989 Sovereigns
The Royal Mint issued a full proof set of 1989 sovereigns in four denominations:
- Five Sovereign Piece (Quintuple Sovereign): 39.94g of 22-carat gold – one of the rarest and most valuable versions.
- Double Sovereign (£2): 15.98g of 22-carat gold – extremely limited and often graded PF69 or PF70.
- Full Sovereign (£1): 7.98g of 22-carat gold – the most recognisable and widely collected.
- Half Sovereign (½ Sovereign): 3.99g of 22-carat gold – the smallest denomination in the series.
All were issued in matching Royal Mint presentation cases with certificates. Complete four-coin sets are especially sought-after today, often commanding strong premiums over the combined individual prices.
How 1989 Sovereigns Became So Valuable
When first released, many collectors overlooked the 1989 Sovereign because of its unconventional design. However, as time passed, the coin’s artistry, symbolic depth and one-year-only status became clear. By the early 2000s, demand had begun to soar, and prices followed.
Today, even non-graded examples in their original boxes are highly desirable, while PF69 and PF70 graded coins by NGC or PCGS are considered blue-chip collectibles. The combination of artistry, history and scarcity makes the 1989 series one of the best-performing proof issues of the past 40 years.
Buying or Selling a 1989 Sovereign
If you’re looking to buy or sell a 1989 Sovereign, condition and authenticity are key. PF70 Ultra Cameo examples command significant premiums, while lower-graded coins remain excellent long-term holds. Always ensure the coin comes with its original Royal Mint box and COA, or has been professionally graded by NGC or PCGS.
Looking to sell your 1989 Sovereign?
Sovara Coins specialises in graded and proof sovereigns including the 1989 issue. We offer free valuations, transparent pricing and immediate payment.
Final Thoughts
The 1989 Gold Proof Sovereign represents far more than a commemorative issue - it’s a landmark in British numismatic history. Its unique design, limited mintage and lasting appeal have transformed it from a misunderstood release into one of the most admired sovereigns ever struck.
Whether you’re adding one to your collection or looking to sell, the 1989 Sovereign remains one of the most important and beautiful coins The Royal Mint has ever produced.
