A British Gold Sovereign contains 0.2354 troy oz of pure gold, worth $940.87 at today's spot price.
The sovereign has been struck to the same 22-karat standard since 1817, and is one of the most widely traded gold coins in the world.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Gold $3,996.90 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 25, 12:19 AM EDT
Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.
Melt value is the metal content at spot price, not a buy or sell price. Collectible coins can be worth much more. For reference only.
Specifications
| Years | 1817–present |
|---|---|
| Face value | 1 GBP |
| Composition | 91.67% gold (22 karat) |
| Gross weight | 7.988 g |
| Fineness | .9167 (91.67%) |
| Pure metal | 0.2354 troy oz (7.322 g) |
| Diameter | 22.05 mm |
How the melt value is worked out
Melt value is the pure gold in the coin multiplied by the spot price. We use the coin's standard minted weight; worn coins weigh slightly less.
-
7.988 g × .9167 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.2354 troy oz
0.2354 troy oz × $3,996.90 spot = $940.87
How to identify it
- Most sovereigns show St George slaying the dragon on the reverse.
- Sovereigns were also struck at branch mints in Australia, Canada, India and South Africa, with small mint marks.
Melt value vs. collector value
Common-date sovereigns trade a little above melt; older and branch-mint coins can carry collector premiums.
Related tools
Sources
- The Royal Mint: Sovereign bullion coin — checked 2026-10-22
- Wikipedia: Sovereign (British coin) — checked 2026-10-22