Description
The 1987 Gold Proof Sovereign belongs to the early years of Raphael Maklouf’s portrait on British coinage, combining the Queen’s third definitive effigy with the traditional Saint George and the dragon reverse. This example has been authenticated and encapsulated by PCGS with the grade PR70 DCAM, pairing the highest numerical grade on the Sheldon scale with the Deep Cameo designation for pronounced contrast between the frosted design and mirrored fields.
The obverse features Maklouf’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, introduced in 1985. Depicting the Queen facing right and wearing the Diamond Diadem, earrings and a necklace, the design presents a formal royal likeness. It remained the definitive portrait on British coinage until 1997, giving the Sovereigns of this period their recognisable appearance.
The reverse features Benedetto Pistrucci’s depiction of Saint George slaying the dragon, with the date beneath the scene. First introduced on the modern Sovereign in 1817, the mounted saint and fallen dragon connect this issue to the denomination’s nineteenth-century origins. The proof finish highlights the detail of the composition against polished fields.
Struck in 22 carat gold to the traditional Sovereign specification, the 1987 issue brings together two distinct eras of British coin design. Its PCGS PR70 DCAM certification gives collectors an example of the Maklouf portrait Sovereign in the highest numerical grade, with the additional visual distinction of Deep Cameo contrast.
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