Description
The 1984 Gold Proof Sovereign marks the final year of Arnold Machin’s portrait on the Sovereign, closing a distinctive chapter in Queen Elizabeth II’s coinage. This example has been authenticated and encapsulated by PCGS with the grade PR70 DCAM, combining 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 Machin’s second definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, depicting the Queen facing right and wearing a tiara. Familiar across British decimal coinage, this elegant effigy gives the issue its recognisable appearance. Its final use on the Sovereign in 1984 preceded the introduction of Raphael Maklouf’s portrait the following year.
The reverse carries Benedetto Pistrucci’s celebrated depiction of Saint George slaying the dragon, with the date beneath the scene. First introduced on the modern Sovereign in 1817, the composition links this twentieth-century issue to the denomination’s revival under George III. The carefully prepared proof surfaces highlight the detail of the mounted saint, flowing cape and dragon below.
Struck in 22 carat gold to the traditional Sovereign specification, the 1984 issue combines an enduring reverse with an important final-year portrait. Its place at the end of the Machin Sovereign series, together with PCGS PR70 DCAM certification, gives this example particular interest for collectors following the changing portraits of Elizabeth II.
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