1979 Elizabeth II Gold Proof Sovereign – NGC PF70 Ultra Cameo
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1979 Gold Proof Sovereign — NGC PF70 Ultra Cameo (Top Pop)
This 1979 sovereign was the first individually-issued proof sovereign produced by the Royal Mint for collectors. Of the 50,000 struck, NGC has graded only 54 examples at the perfect PF70 Ultra Cameo level — making this coin's Top Pop population one of the smallest of any modern proof sovereign. Certified under NGC cert number 8534731-001.
A Modern Classic Reaches Perfection: The 1979 Gold Proof Sovereign.
The 1979 Gold Proof Sovereign holds a special place in numismatic history as the very first year the Royal Mint issued a proof version of the sovereign for individual collectors in its own right. While many were struck, the vast majority suffer from microscopic surface imperfections or "milk spots" that prevent them from reaching the highest tier of grading. To find an example in a perfect 70 grade is exceptionally rare.
Technical Specifications
| Year of Issue | 1979 |
| Metal | 22-carat Gold (.916 Fine) |
| Weight | 7.98 Grams |
| Diameter | 22.05 mm |
| Total Mintage | 50,000 |
| NGC Grade | PF70 Ultra Cameo |
| Population (Pop) | Top Pop - Only 54 in Grade |
Condition Rarity & Significance
- The 70-Grade Challenge: Although 50,000 were minted, the production standards of the late 70s mean that only a tiny fraction of these coins remain in flawless condition. With only 54 examples worldwide attaining the Top Pop PF70 grade, this coin is vastly scarcer than its mintage suggests.
- Ultra Cameo Contrast: This specimen features the prestigious "Ultra Cameo" designation, signifying an intense frost on the raised portraits and a deep, liquid-mirror finish on the fields.
- Arnold Machin Portrait: Features the second definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, paired with the classic St George and the Dragon by Benedetto Pistrucci on the reverse.
- Investment & Tax: As British Legal Tender, this coin is VAT-free and exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT), making it an ideal choice for a tax-efficient gold portfolio.
"A true survivor of the first year of modern proof sovereign production. One of only 54 perfect examples in existence."
Add this Top Pop 1979 Proof Sovereign to your collection today. Exclusively at Sovara Coins.
Condition: Graded PF70 Ultra Cameo by NGC – flawless under 5x magnification
Presentation: Slabbed and authenticated in a secure NGC holder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Delivery Information
We offer free insured delivery across the UK on all orders. Every coin is carefully inspected, securely packaged, and sent using Royal Mail Special Delivery - a fully tracked, next-day service that requires a signature on receipt.
All parcels are shipped discreetly and fully insured for peace of mind.
We currently do not ship internationally. Orders can only be delivered to the UK address provided at checkout, and we’re unable to send to PO Box addresses.
We aim to dispatch all orders within one business day of receiving cleared payment. Once your order has been dispatched, you’ll receive tracking details so you can monitor its progress.
Returns Policy
For non-bullion items (such as proof coins, graded coins or accessories), we’re happy to accept returns within 14 days of receipt if you feel your coin is not as described and provided the item is returned in its original condition, please contact us and we’ll be glad to help.
If an item is returned for reasons other than being not as described, return postage will be the responsibility of the buyer.
Important Notes
- All returns must be pre-authorised by our customer service team.
- Please use a tracked and insured service when sending items back to us, as we cannot accept liability for goods lost or damaged in transit.
- For full details, please see our Terms & Conditions or contact us directly with any questions.
At Sovara Coins, your security is our priority. To protect both our customers and ourselves from fraud, we currently accept debit card and bank transfer payments only.
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Please note that we do not accept credit cards. This policy helps us keep prices competitive and ensures all transactions remain low-risk and fully traceable.
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- Billing and shipping addresses must match.
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Every payment method we accept is fully secure, encrypted and protected. Once payment is confirmed, your order will be prepared for dispatch within one business day.
Yes. Every NGC-certified coin has a unique certification number visible on the slab label. You can verify the grade, coin details and population data at NGCcoin.uk using the cert number shown.
The NGC census records how many examples of each coin have been graded at each level. A Top Pop coin means no other example has achieved a higher grade — making it the finest certified specimen in existence for that issue.
Yes. If you have existing graded sovereigns you'd like to trade towards a purchase, contact us for a bespoke cost-to-change valuation.