Why Does a Gold Sovereign Weigh 7.98805 grams? -Although the Gold Sovereign is one of the World's most renowned coins, it has a strange weight: 7.98805g. That's 0.2354 troy ounce which is just as obscure. So how did we get here? Why Does a Gold Sovereign Weigh 7.98805 grams?
History of the Mercury Dime -The Mercury Dime was minted from 1916 through 1945. The coin is actually named a 'Winged Liberty Dime', but as the image of Liberty wearing a cap with wings looked very much like the Roman God Mercury it is better known as a 'Mercury Dime'.
The Quarter-Guinea and Other Problems -The Quarter-Guinea was only issued twice: once in 1718 by George I, and once in 1762 by George III. Both times it was a means to an end, and the end wasn't exactly successful. This is the story of the Quarter Guinea, it's problems and how Sir Isaac Newton moved from a bi-metallic standard towards the Gold standard to prevent a run on silver.
The Gold Sovereign Portraits of Queen Elizabeth II -Queen Elizabeth II is now the longest reigning Monarch ever and as you may expect there has been quite a number of different portraits on coins, not only on the UK but many other associated countries. On British Gold Sovereigns there have been five different portraits plus a special commemorative portrait.
History of the Barber Dime -Barber Dimes, designed by the eponymous Charles E Barber, were produced from 1892 through 1916. Here is the history, collectors notes, key dates, and also the story of the 1894-S which easily commands $1.5 million.
Royal Mint Music Legends Collection Starts with Queen -The Royal Mint have started a new collection of coins called "Music Legends" and the first artists to be honoured in this way is the British rock band Queen. The 2020 Queen coins include £5 in BU, £2 silver and £100 gold.