Shrouded in mystery, The Perth Mint 1918 Half Sovereign is a coin that was not meant to exist. The Perth Mint has no records of producing any gold half sovereigns in 1918, the final year of World War I. Not surprisingly, the numismatic community was shocked in the mid-1970s when the 1918 gold half sovereign featuring a ‘P’ mintmark was first sighted. Subsequently, experts have estimated that perhaps 200 to 300 examples of the 1918 coin were struck.
Somewhat remarkably, Perth Mint records also indicate that half sovereigns were struck in 1919 and 1920, but neither date has ever been sighted. Some theorise that these coins may well have been struck with 1918 dies, leading to the creation of a date that shouldn’t exist!
No matter its origin, the 1918 Perth Mint Gold Half Sovereign is recognised as the last Perth Mint half sovereign and the final coin of the entire Australian 1855-1918 half sovereign series. It is therefore one of the most sought-after and rarest Australian coins, making the opportunity to purchase one in Uncirculated (Unc) quality incredibly exciting for collectors.
Iconic St George Design
The coin’s reverse portrays Benedetto Pistrucci’s classic St George and the Dragon design, and includes The Perth Mint’s traditional ‘P’ mintmark. The obverse depicts the original portrait of King George V which was represented from 1911 to 1928.
Secure Packaging
Officially assessed by leading third party coin verifiers Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this 1918 Perth Mint Gold Half Sovereign is displayed in certified security packaging.