In 1917, Sovereigns were struck in London, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Ottawa. The Canadian issue has by far the lowest mintage figures from that year with only 48,875 Sovereigns struck.

An icon unbowed

Operation Alberich - In February 1917, after huge German losses were suffered in the previous year’s Battle of the Somme, Commanders in Chief Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg and General Erich Ludendorff, authorised a new defensive line in France, running from Vailly-sur-Ainse through to Arras, shortening their defensive line by 30 miles.

This new defensive strategy proved troublesome for British and French troops and many experts believe it was a major factor in extending the war by another year.

As such, 1917 has become a highly desirable year date Sovereign.