Royal Mint
2016 Gold Proof Quarter Sovereign PF70 Ultra Cameo – James Butler Special
2016 Gold Proof Quarter Sovereign PF70 Ultra Cameo – James Butler Special
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The 2016 Gold Proof Quarter Sovereign is one of the most distinctive modern issues in the sovereign series, struck to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday. This edition uniquely features the special portrait by sculptor James Butler, which was commissioned for this one-year-only release. Unlike the standard Jody Clark obverse, this design shows a more regal, classical representation of Her Majesty and appears only on 2016-dated proof sovereigns.
Struck in 22 carat gold to proof standard, this coin has been graded PF70 Ultra Cameo by NGC, confirming its flawless condition and exceptional contrast between the frosted design and mirrored fields.
The reverse features Pistrucci’s timeless St George and the Dragon, maintaining the tradition of the sovereign while honouring a historic royal milestone. With its low mintage and unique obverse, the 2016 quarter sovereign is one of the most sought-after fractional proof issues of the last decade.
Coin Specifications
• Year. 2016
• Monarch. Queen Elizabeth II
• Denomination. Quarter Sovereign
• Metal. 22 Carat Gold (91.67%)
• Weight. 1.997g
• Diameter. 13.50mm
• Obverse. Queen Elizabeth II by James Butler
• Reverse. St George and the Dragon by Benedetto Pistrucci
• Finish. Proof
• Grade. PF70 Ultra Cameo – NGC Certified
• Edge. Milled
• Presentation. NGC holder with certification number
Key Points
• Features the James Butler obverse, used only in 2016
• Graded PF70 Ultra Cameo – flawless certified condition
• Struck in 22 carat gold to The Royal Mint’s highest standard
• Limited edition proof-only release
• Rare and highly collectable among modern sovereign enthusiasts
• Free tracked and insured UK delivery included
About the portrait
Queen Elizabeth II – James Butler portrait (2016 proof sovereigns and select commemoratives)
Overview
In 2016, to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday, the Royal Mint introduced a special one-year-only obverse by sculptor James Butler RA. This portrait depicts the Queen wearing the George IV State Diadem and is more formal and stately than the circulating Jody Clark effigy of the same year.
Years of use
• 2016 only.
• Featured exclusively on the proof sovereign range (from quintuple to quarter sovereign) and select commemorative issues such as the £5 gold coin.
• Bullion sovereigns of 2016 retained the standard Jody Clark portrait.
Designer initials
• JB on the truncation.
Relevance to sovereign collectors
• A key one-year type for proof sovereign collectors.
• Only proof strikes carry this portrait, making it immediately distinguishable from bullion issues.
• Paired with Benedetto Pistrucci’s classic St George and the Dragon reverse.
Notable notes
• Highly collectable as a “type coin” within modern proof sovereign runs.
• The only time the Royal Mint used Butler’s effigy on a UK sovereign.
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Delivery & Returns
Delivery Information
We offer free insured delivery on all orders. Every item is securely and discreetly packaged, then shipped via Royal Mail Special Delivery for fast, fully tracked service.
For higher-value purchases, we may arrange secure shipping through trusted couriers such as Brinks or FedEx International Priority, depending on destination.
- UK orders usually arrive the next business day after dispatch.
- International orders typically take 3–7 business days depending on location.
We aim to dispatch all orders within 1 business day of receiving cleared payment. Please note that we can only deliver to the address provided at checkout and cannot ship to PO Box addresses. Once dispatched, you’ll receive a tracking number to follow your order.
Returns Policy
Because bullion prices are directly linked to the live precious metals markets, bullion sales are final. This is standard across the industry and protects both buyer and seller from fluctuations.
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.
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Precious Metal Price Fluctuations
Please note that the prices of precious metals, such as gold and silver, are subject to fluctuations due to market conditions. As a result, the price of our bullion products can change frequently.
When you place an order, the price is locked in at the time of purchase, ensuring you pay the agreed amount regardless of any subsequent market movements.
We recommend acting quickly if you see a price that suits your investment strategy, as prices can vary significantly in a short period.
Buying New or Preowned Gold and Silver
At Sovara Coins, we offer both new and preowned gold and silver products to suit various investment strategies. Purchasing preowned bullion can be a cost-effective option, as it often comes with a lower premium over the spot price, allowing you to maximize your investment.
While preowned items may show minor signs of wear, such as scratches, milk spots or tarnishing, they are sold strictly as bullion, with their precious metal content fully guaranteed. Whether you choose new or preowned, you can be confident in the quality and authenticity of our products.