Struck in 2012 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, this Gold Proof Sovereign marks 60 years since Her Majesty’s accession to the throne. Created for one year only, it is a distinctive commemorative edition within the modern Sovereign series and a lasting tribute to a historic royal milestone.

For this special issue, The Royal Mint introduced a new interpretation of St George and the dragon by the British sculptor Paul Day. Moving away from the familiar classical style, Day presents St George as a medieval knight of Arthurian legend, while the enlarged dragon brings drama and tension to the design. The detailed composition rewards a closer look, making this reverse a particularly engaging feature for collectors.

The obverse bears the fourth definitive coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS. Depicting Her Majesty wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, it provides a fitting counterpart to a coin created for one of the defining celebrations of her reign.

Struck in 22 carat gold to Proof standard, this Sovereign combines polished fields with finely detailed frosted designs. Weighing 7.98g and measuring 22.05mm in diameter, it follows the traditional Sovereign specification while standing apart through its exceptional jubilee reverse.

For collectors of Queen Elizabeth II coinage, Diamond Jubilee issues or special Sovereign designs, the 2012 Gold Proof Sovereign offers an important dated piece. Its one-year-only Paul Day reverse ensures that it remains one of the most recognisable and sought-after modern interpretations of St George and the dragon.