British Coins
including Colonies and Commonwealth
Except otherwise stated, all results include the premium.
See also : Coins 1000-1775 Japanese coins British Royals
Except otherwise stated, all results include the premium.
See also : Coins 1000-1775 Japanese coins British Royals
1703 Vigo Five guineas
2019 SOLD for $ 1.08M by Baldwin's of Saint James's
In 1702 the English have failed to take the port of Cadiz and divert their effort into Vigo Bay where a train of boats has just arrived from Havana, bringing to Europe the wealth of America. The war treasure captured by the English in Vigo is significant.
Gold is rare in England. In 1703 the metal seized in Vigo is used to mint coins with the effigy of Queen Anne. The largest denomination is the five guineas, a superb achievement weighing more than 40 grams. Its total population is estimated at 20 units in two basic variants differentiated by the position of the word VIGO centered under the bust or offset under the shoulder. The VIGO beneath shoulder is the rarer.
On February 9, 2016, St. James's sold for £ 275K before fees an example in very good condition of the VIGO beneath shoulder, graded AU55 by PCGS.
Another VIGO beneath shoulder was sold for £ 280K by Boningtons on Novemner 16, 2016. It had just been resurfaced by the consignor from a "pirate treasure" that had been constituted for him many years earlier by his grandfather who had been a lover of travels and coins.
On January 13, 2019, Baldwin's of Saint James's, successor to St. James's, sold another example for $ 1.08M. This VIGO beneath shoulder has a slightly different position of the VIGO hallmark. It may have been a prototype whose irregular letter height in that mark was not acceptable for the rest of the production. This coin is graded Mint State 62 by PCGS and is perfectly centered.
Gold is rare in England. In 1703 the metal seized in Vigo is used to mint coins with the effigy of Queen Anne. The largest denomination is the five guineas, a superb achievement weighing more than 40 grams. Its total population is estimated at 20 units in two basic variants differentiated by the position of the word VIGO centered under the bust or offset under the shoulder. The VIGO beneath shoulder is the rarer.
On February 9, 2016, St. James's sold for £ 275K before fees an example in very good condition of the VIGO beneath shoulder, graded AU55 by PCGS.
Another VIGO beneath shoulder was sold for £ 280K by Boningtons on Novemner 16, 2016. It had just been resurfaced by the consignor from a "pirate treasure" that had been constituted for him many years earlier by his grandfather who had been a lover of travels and coins.
On January 13, 2019, Baldwin's of Saint James's, successor to St. James's, sold another example for $ 1.08M. This VIGO beneath shoulder has a slightly different position of the VIGO hallmark. It may have been a prototype whose irregular letter height in that mark was not acceptable for the rest of the production. This coin is graded Mint State 62 by PCGS and is perfectly centered.
1831 William IV five pounds
2020 SOLD for € 980K by MDC
William Wyon was appointed chief engraver of the British Mint in 1828.
In 1831 he prepared for the coronation of King William IV a pattern gold coin of five pounds struck in high relief to the exact weight of five sovereigns from the dies used for the proof silver crown. The obverse has the bare aging head of the new king, spelled Gulielmus IIII, turned to the right and the reverse has the coat of arms of the Order of the Garter. The rim is blank.
About 9 examples are known of the five pounds. The finest preserved, weighing 39.90 g, has a superb strike brilliance in the fields and a perfect finish of the matte reliefs. It is graded PR 66* Ultra Cameo by NGC. It was sold for € 980K by MDC on October 29, 2020, lot 805.
An example graded PF 63 + Ultra Cameo by NGC was sold for £ 370K before fees by Spink on December 14, 2023, lot 2006 here linked on the NumisBids bidding platform. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
An example graded PF 62 Ultra Cameo by NGC was sold for $ 425K before fees by NGC on January 15, 2020, lot 1346.
In 1831 he prepared for the coronation of King William IV a pattern gold coin of five pounds struck in high relief to the exact weight of five sovereigns from the dies used for the proof silver crown. The obverse has the bare aging head of the new king, spelled Gulielmus IIII, turned to the right and the reverse has the coat of arms of the Order of the Garter. The rim is blank.
About 9 examples are known of the five pounds. The finest preserved, weighing 39.90 g, has a superb strike brilliance in the fields and a perfect finish of the matte reliefs. It is graded PR 66* Ultra Cameo by NGC. It was sold for € 980K by MDC on October 29, 2020, lot 805.
An example graded PF 63 + Ultra Cameo by NGC was sold for £ 370K before fees by Spink on December 14, 2023, lot 2006 here linked on the NumisBids bidding platform. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
An example graded PF 62 Ultra Cameo by NGC was sold for $ 425K before fees by NGC on January 15, 2020, lot 1346.
1839 Una and the Lion
Intro
The English, weary of the dynasty of the Georges, are delighted in 1830 to know that the heiress of King William IV is a little girl. William Wyon, the Chief engraver of the Royal Mint, sketches her profile portrait in 1834 when she is 15 years old. She ascends the throne in 1837, opening the Victorian era.
The new reign is organizing. Victoria is crowned on June 28, 1838 and married on February 10, 1840. In 1839 the Royal Mint commemorates the new reign with a prestigious issue including the fifteen monetary values from farthing to five pounds.
Struck in gold, the highest denomination is the masterpiece of British coinage, both for aesthetics and for political importance. Wyon targeted it skilfully : it is widely regarded as English numismatics' most beautiful design. The obverse is the young head. The reverse draws from Edmund Spenser's "The Faerie Queene," portraying the young queen as Una guiding a lion, symbolizing harmony over Britain's untamed forces. The lion is the traditional symbol of Great Britain. A saying from the Psalms (117: 133) promises a kingdom delivered from sin.
These coins have not circulated. All the Five pounds inspected by PCGS or NGC are Proofs, graded between PR60 and PR67. The contrast must also be taken into account for their appraisal.
The Una and the Lion is a renowned British gold coin, specifically a £5 sovereign pattern struck in 1839 during the early reign of Queen Victoria. Designed by William Wyon, the Royal Mint's chief engraver, it's widely considered one of the most beautiful coins in English numismatic history due to its artistic detail and symbolic depth.
Design and Symbolism
Historical Significance
Issued at the dawn of the Victorian era, the Una and the Lion embodies the optimism and artistic flourishing of the time. It wasn't intended for general circulation but as a prestigious pattern piece for elite collectors and presentation sets. Its enduring appeal has inspired modern reproductions, such as silver and gold versions from issuers like St. Helena, Alderney, and the British Virgin Islands, often in ultra-high relief or proof finishes to honor the original design. These tributes keep the legacy alive, with some 2023–2025 editions graded near-perfect (e.g., PF70) by services like NGC.
The new reign is organizing. Victoria is crowned on June 28, 1838 and married on February 10, 1840. In 1839 the Royal Mint commemorates the new reign with a prestigious issue including the fifteen monetary values from farthing to five pounds.
Struck in gold, the highest denomination is the masterpiece of British coinage, both for aesthetics and for political importance. Wyon targeted it skilfully : it is widely regarded as English numismatics' most beautiful design. The obverse is the young head. The reverse draws from Edmund Spenser's "The Faerie Queene," portraying the young queen as Una guiding a lion, symbolizing harmony over Britain's untamed forces. The lion is the traditional symbol of Great Britain. A saying from the Psalms (117: 133) promises a kingdom delivered from sin.
These coins have not circulated. All the Five pounds inspected by PCGS or NGC are Proofs, graded between PR60 and PR67. The contrast must also be taken into account for their appraisal.
The Una and the Lion is a renowned British gold coin, specifically a £5 sovereign pattern struck in 1839 during the early reign of Queen Victoria. Designed by William Wyon, the Royal Mint's chief engraver, it's widely considered one of the most beautiful coins in English numismatic history due to its artistic detail and symbolic depth.
Design and Symbolism
- Obverse: Features a youthful bust of Queen Victoria, wearing a coronet and facing left, with the inscription "VICTORIA D:G: BRITANNIAR: REGINA F:D:" (Victoria by the Grace of God, Queen of the Britains, Defender of the Faith).
- Reverse: Depicts the queen as the character Una from Edmund Spenser's epic poem The Faerie Queene (1590), guiding a majestic lion symbolizing England. Una represents purity, truth, and harmony, while the lion evokes Britain's strength and imperial power. The design captures an optimistic vision of Victoria's rule taming the "wild" forces of the nation. This motif was created to commemorate the anniversary of Victoria's coronation in 1838, blending classical artistry with Romantic literary influences.
Historical Significance
Issued at the dawn of the Victorian era, the Una and the Lion embodies the optimism and artistic flourishing of the time. It wasn't intended for general circulation but as a prestigious pattern piece for elite collectors and presentation sets. Its enduring appeal has inspired modern reproductions, such as silver and gold versions from issuers like St. Helena, Alderney, and the British Virgin Islands, often in ultra-high relief or proof finishes to honor the original design. These tributes keep the legacy alive, with some 2023–2025 editions graded near-perfect (e.g., PF70) by services like NGC.
Special Report
Wyon's Process
William Wyon's Design Process
William Wyon (1795–1851) was a prominent British engraver and medallist, serving as Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint from 1828 until his death. Born into a family of die engravers in Birmingham, he apprenticed under his father at the Soho Mint, where he gained early exposure to steam-powered coining technology during the Industrial Revolution. His neoclassical style emphasized realism, energy, and sensitivity in portraits and allegorical figures, influencing British numismatics profoundly. Wyon's process was collaborative and iterative, blending traditional handcraft with emerging mechanization, as seen in his extensive folios of over 150 drawings now held by the British Museum. These drawings often involved partnerships with artists like Henry Corbould, Thomas Stothard, and William Dyce, highlighting a segmented production workflow typical of 19th-century coin and medal creation.
A hallmark of Wyon's work was the 1839 "Una and the Lion" gold proof five-pound coin, commissioned to mark the anniversary of Queen Victoria's coronation and widely regarded as one of Britain's most beautiful coins. This design broke convention by portraying the monarch as a fictional character for the first time, depicting the young Queen Victoria as Lady Una from Edmund Spenser's 1590 epic poem The Faerie Queene, guiding a lion symbolizing England's strength and the British Empire's imperial might. The reverse features Una (Victoria) holding a scepter and orb, with the lion at her side, encircled by the Latin motto "DIRIGE DEUS GRESSUS MEOS" ("May God direct my steps"), adding moral and allegorical depth. The obverse shows Victoria's profile with the inscription "VICTORIA D:G: BRITANNIAR: REGINA F:D." Wyon's signature "W. Wyon R.A." (Royal Academician) appears on the design, underscoring his personal artistry.
Key Steps in Wyon's Design ProcessWyon's approach combined artistic inspiration with technical precision, adapting to the Royal Mint's shift toward industrialization in the 1820s–1830s. While specific documentation for "Una and the Lion" is limited, artifacts like impressions in the Royal Mint Museum reveal evolutionary stages, and his general methods—evident in patterns, trials, and collaborations—likely applied here. The process typically unfolded as follows:
William Wyon (1795–1851) was a prominent British engraver and medallist, serving as Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint from 1828 until his death. Born into a family of die engravers in Birmingham, he apprenticed under his father at the Soho Mint, where he gained early exposure to steam-powered coining technology during the Industrial Revolution. His neoclassical style emphasized realism, energy, and sensitivity in portraits and allegorical figures, influencing British numismatics profoundly. Wyon's process was collaborative and iterative, blending traditional handcraft with emerging mechanization, as seen in his extensive folios of over 150 drawings now held by the British Museum. These drawings often involved partnerships with artists like Henry Corbould, Thomas Stothard, and William Dyce, highlighting a segmented production workflow typical of 19th-century coin and medal creation.
A hallmark of Wyon's work was the 1839 "Una and the Lion" gold proof five-pound coin, commissioned to mark the anniversary of Queen Victoria's coronation and widely regarded as one of Britain's most beautiful coins. This design broke convention by portraying the monarch as a fictional character for the first time, depicting the young Queen Victoria as Lady Una from Edmund Spenser's 1590 epic poem The Faerie Queene, guiding a lion symbolizing England's strength and the British Empire's imperial might. The reverse features Una (Victoria) holding a scepter and orb, with the lion at her side, encircled by the Latin motto "DIRIGE DEUS GRESSUS MEOS" ("May God direct my steps"), adding moral and allegorical depth. The obverse shows Victoria's profile with the inscription "VICTORIA D:G: BRITANNIAR: REGINA F:D." Wyon's signature "W. Wyon R.A." (Royal Academician) appears on the design, underscoring his personal artistry.
Key Steps in Wyon's Design ProcessWyon's approach combined artistic inspiration with technical precision, adapting to the Royal Mint's shift toward industrialization in the 1820s–1830s. While specific documentation for "Una and the Lion" is limited, artifacts like impressions in the Royal Mint Museum reveal evolutionary stages, and his general methods—evident in patterns, trials, and collaborations—likely applied here. The process typically unfolded as follows:
- Conceptualization and Inspiration: Wyon drew from literary and symbolic sources to create allegorical narratives. For "Una and the Lion," the design reimagined royal portraiture through Spenser's tale, portraying Victoria as a figure of truth and guidance amid national confidence. This step involved initial sketches, often in collaboration with other artists, to refine symbolic elements like the lion's pose or Una's attributes.
- Drawing and Preliminary Design: Detailed drawings were produced, sometimes annotated for historical context (as in Wyon's folios). These explored variations, such as the rare "DIRIGIT" pattern for "Una and the Lion," which featured subtle adjustments like a lowered lion shoulder, outward date placement, and centered signature—reflecting experimental iterations.
- Modeling: Wyon created enlarged models in plaster or wax to capture intricate details, such as facial proportions and relief depth. This allowed for realistic rendering of neoclassical elements, minimizing distortions in portraits and figures.
- Reduction and Die Engraving: Using a pantograph and reducing lathe, Wyon scaled the models down to steel dies with high precision. He employed a hybrid technique: mechanical reduction for efficiency, combined with traditional hand-punching and manual finishing to maintain artistic control, depth, and nuance—addressing limitations like machine-flattened reliefs. Meticulous engraving ensured subtle details, with hand-finished dies for each coin.
- Prototyping and Striking: Trial pieces, off-metal strikes, and patterns (e.g., the singular "DIRIGIT" variant) tested the design. Impressions in the museum collection illustrate how the "Una and the Lion" evolved through refinements. The final proofs required multiple strikes to achieve high-relief finishes, with a limited mintage of about 400 pieces in 22-carat gold (39.94 grams, 36–38 mm diameter), primarily for collectors rather than circulation.
1
PR67* Deep Cameo Intense by PCGS
2023 SOLD for € 1.56M by MDC
The finest example of Una and the Lion known by PCGS is graded PR67* Deep Cameo intense (DCAM). The star suffix rewards an outstanding visual quality.
It was sold for € 1.56M by MDC on October 13, 2023, lot 2170. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
The specific variety of the 1839 Victoria "Una and the Lion" gold proof 5 pounds coin featured in the 2023 MDC Monaco auction (lot 2170), with 6 scrolls (or rouleaux) in the headband and 11 leaves, corresponds to the W&R-278 catalog reference (rated R4 for rarity). This is classified as an early or initial issue in the production sequence, debuting William Wyon's iconic design shortly after Queen Victoria's accession. It was part of the original limited mintage of approximately 400 specimens intended for proof sets and collectors, with an estimated striking date of 1839 (aligning with the coin's date and the edge inscription referencing the third year of her reign, or "ANNO REGNI TERTIO," which spans 1839–1840). This positions it at the beginning of the timeline for the type, predating later on-demand restrikes (which could extend into the 1880s) that may feature different die varieties, edge lettering sizes, or scroll/leaf counts.
It was sold for € 1.56M by MDC on October 13, 2023, lot 2170. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
The specific variety of the 1839 Victoria "Una and the Lion" gold proof 5 pounds coin featured in the 2023 MDC Monaco auction (lot 2170), with 6 scrolls (or rouleaux) in the headband and 11 leaves, corresponds to the W&R-278 catalog reference (rated R4 for rarity). This is classified as an early or initial issue in the production sequence, debuting William Wyon's iconic design shortly after Queen Victoria's accession. It was part of the original limited mintage of approximately 400 specimens intended for proof sets and collectors, with an estimated striking date of 1839 (aligning with the coin's date and the edge inscription referencing the third year of her reign, or "ANNO REGNI TERTIO," which spans 1839–1840). This positions it at the beginning of the timeline for the type, predating later on-demand restrikes (which could extend into the 1880s) that may feature different die varieties, edge lettering sizes, or scroll/leaf counts.
2
PR66* Ultra Cameo by NGC
2021 SOLD for $ 1.44M by Heritage
A Una and the Lion was sold by Heritage for $ 1.44M on August 19, 2021, lot 33227 and for $ 915K on January 12, 2026, lot 34220. Please watch the videos shared in 2021 by the auction house.
This standout example—the finest known by NGC among dozens of listed examples, is graded by them PF 66★ Ultra Cameo (with a star for exceptional eye appeal)--
Its model has the lowest rarity from nine varieties. The PCGS PR 64 Deep Cameo coin sold in 2020 was from the same run, certainly the original mintage of about 400 coins. The Royal Mint made restrikes up to 1886.
On January 13, 2020, Heritage sold for $ 690K a Five pounds graded PR64 Deep Cameo by PCGS, lot 32248. The next lot was another example of the same coin, graded PR61 Ultra Cameo by NGC. It was sold for $ 300K.
On September 26, 2015, Baldwin's sold for £ 500K a full set of the fifteen denominations, in a great condition. The eight highest denominations have all been graded PR66 or better by NGC. The Five pounds is a PR66 Ultra Cameo.
Heritage Auctions @HeritageAuction Aug 20, 2021
#HERITAGELIVE Sole finest certified representative of the classic British gold rarity, this 1839 Victoria gold proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds just sold with a record-breaking bid at $1,440, 000. Hear her roar! https://fal.cn/3hAvP #HeritageAuctions #worldcoins
Price Commentary on the 1839 Victoria "Una and the Lion" Gold Proof 5 Pounds
The specific specimen you referenced (NGC certification 6057413-002, graded PR66★ Ultra Cameo) appears to be a high-end example of this iconic coin, known for its exceptional eye appeal (denoted by the ★ designation) and deep cameo contrast. Its sale history reflects the volatility in the rare coin market, influenced by factors like economic conditions, collector demand, auction timing, and broader trends in numismatics. Below, I'll break down the prices you mentioned, provide context, and compare them. All conversions to USD use approximate historical exchange rates for the sale dates to allow for fair cross-currency comparison (rates sourced from general knowledge of forex trends; e.g., EUR/USD was ~1.17 in Oct 2020, ~1.06 in Oct 2023, and ~1.07 in Jan 2026).
Key Sale Prices for This Specimen (NGC 6057413-002)
Comparison with the Two MDC Monaco Sales
These appear to be different specimens of the same coin type, though grades and exact pedigrees may vary (details below). MDC Monaco's buyer's premium is 20% (added to the hammer price to form the total realized price; no additional VAT mentioned in standard terms for non-EU buyers, but this can vary). Prices are in EUR, with USD equivalents for comparison.
Sale DateAuction House & LotGrade/DetailsHammer Price (Local)Total Price (Local)Approx. USD EquivalentNotes
Oct 2020 MDC Monaco, Lot 807, NGC PF66 Ultra Cameo, €984,000$1,151,000
Similar grade to your specimen but without ★; set a record at the time for British coins.
Aug 2021 Heritage (your specimen), NGC PR66★ Ultra Cameo, $1,440,000
Peak market; eclipsed prior records amid strong post-COVID demand.
Oct 2023 MDC Monaco, Lot 2170 (6-scroll variety) €1,560,000 $1,654,000
Highest in this group; possibly a superior grade (e.g., PR67) or rarer variety explaining the premium.
Jan 2026Heritage (your specimen)NGC PR66★ Ultra Cameo $915,000
Recent resale; reflects potential market correction.
*Hammer estimates assume a standard 20% premium; actual hammer not always publicly broken out.
Overall Commentary:These sales illustrate the "Una and the Lion" as a blue-chip numismatic item, with prices ranging from ~$915K to $1.65M in recent years—driven by rarity (only ~400 originally minted, with few high-grade survivors) and its symbolic appeal (Victoria as Una taming the lion, evoking British empire). The 2023 MDC sale stands out as the highest, possibly due to a exceptional example or heated bidding in Europe. In contrast, your specimen's 2026 price is the lowest here, suggesting a market dip (e.g., fewer international buyers at NYINC amid economic uncertainty). The 2020 MDC sale aligns closely with 2021 levels, showing stability before the apparent 2026 softening. If the 2023 lot was indeed higher-graded, it justifies the premium; otherwise, European auctions may command stronger prices for British rarities due to local collector bases. Long-term, these coins have appreciated well historically, but short-term fluctuations highlight the importance of timing and venue.
This standout example—the finest known by NGC among dozens of listed examples, is graded by them PF 66★ Ultra Cameo (with a star for exceptional eye appeal)--
Its model has the lowest rarity from nine varieties. The PCGS PR 64 Deep Cameo coin sold in 2020 was from the same run, certainly the original mintage of about 400 coins. The Royal Mint made restrikes up to 1886.
On January 13, 2020, Heritage sold for $ 690K a Five pounds graded PR64 Deep Cameo by PCGS, lot 32248. The next lot was another example of the same coin, graded PR61 Ultra Cameo by NGC. It was sold for $ 300K.
On September 26, 2015, Baldwin's sold for £ 500K a full set of the fifteen denominations, in a great condition. The eight highest denominations have all been graded PR66 or better by NGC. The Five pounds is a PR66 Ultra Cameo.
Heritage Auctions @HeritageAuction Aug 20, 2021
#HERITAGELIVE Sole finest certified representative of the classic British gold rarity, this 1839 Victoria gold proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds just sold with a record-breaking bid at $1,440, 000. Hear her roar! https://fal.cn/3hAvP #HeritageAuctions #worldcoins
- Heritage Auctions announced the record $1.44 million sale of the finest certified 1839 Victoria gold proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds, graded PR66★ Ultra Cameo by NGC, featuring William Wyon's design of the young queen as Una from Spenser's The Faerie Queene taming a lion to symbolize Britain's imperial might.
- Minted exclusively for the delayed 1839 proof set with an initial run of about 400 pieces, the coin's enduring popularity prompted the Royal Mint to produce more on demand until 1886, making high-grade survivors like this one exceptionally rare and desirable among collectors.
- This 2021 auction eclipsed prior records, such as $690,000 for a PR64 Deep Cameo in 2020, while subsequent sales of lesser examples—like $300,000 for a PR61 and $81,000 for a repaired specimen in 2025—underscore the vast premium for pristine condition and cameo contrast.
Price Commentary on the 1839 Victoria "Una and the Lion" Gold Proof 5 Pounds
The specific specimen you referenced (NGC certification 6057413-002, graded PR66★ Ultra Cameo) appears to be a high-end example of this iconic coin, known for its exceptional eye appeal (denoted by the ★ designation) and deep cameo contrast. Its sale history reflects the volatility in the rare coin market, influenced by factors like economic conditions, collector demand, auction timing, and broader trends in numismatics. Below, I'll break down the prices you mentioned, provide context, and compare them. All conversions to USD use approximate historical exchange rates for the sale dates to allow for fair cross-currency comparison (rates sourced from general knowledge of forex trends; e.g., EUR/USD was ~1.17 in Oct 2020, ~1.06 in Oct 2023, and ~1.07 in Jan 2026).
Key Sale Prices for This Specimen (NGC 6057413-002)
- 2021 Heritage Auction (August): Sold for $1,440,000 (total price including buyer's premium, which is typically 20% at Heritage for high-value lots).
- 2026 Heritage Auction (January 12): Sold for $915,000 (total price including premium).
Comparison with the Two MDC Monaco Sales
These appear to be different specimens of the same coin type, though grades and exact pedigrees may vary (details below). MDC Monaco's buyer's premium is 20% (added to the hammer price to form the total realized price; no additional VAT mentioned in standard terms for non-EU buyers, but this can vary). Prices are in EUR, with USD equivalents for comparison.
- 2020 MDC Monaco (October 29, Lot 807): Hammer price €820,000; total including premium €984,000 (~$1,151,000 USD at the time). This was an NGC PF66 Ultra Cameo example (no ★, slightly lower eye appeal than your specimen).
- 2023 MDC Monaco (October 13, Lot 2170): Hammer price €1,300,000 (as you noted, "before fees"); total including premium €1,560,000 (~$1,654,000 USD at the time). This was described as a "Victoria 5 livres (5 pounds) 'Una and the Lion', bandeaux à 6 rouleaux" (a specific variety with 6 scrolls in the headband), but no grading details were available in catalog listings—likely a high-grade piece given the price.
Sale DateAuction House & LotGrade/DetailsHammer Price (Local)Total Price (Local)Approx. USD EquivalentNotes
Oct 2020 MDC Monaco, Lot 807, NGC PF66 Ultra Cameo, €984,000$1,151,000
Similar grade to your specimen but without ★; set a record at the time for British coins.
Aug 2021 Heritage (your specimen), NGC PR66★ Ultra Cameo, $1,440,000
Peak market; eclipsed prior records amid strong post-COVID demand.
Oct 2023 MDC Monaco, Lot 2170 (6-scroll variety) €1,560,000 $1,654,000
Highest in this group; possibly a superior grade (e.g., PR67) or rarer variety explaining the premium.
Jan 2026Heritage (your specimen)NGC PR66★ Ultra Cameo $915,000
Recent resale; reflects potential market correction.
*Hammer estimates assume a standard 20% premium; actual hammer not always publicly broken out.
Overall Commentary:These sales illustrate the "Una and the Lion" as a blue-chip numismatic item, with prices ranging from ~$915K to $1.65M in recent years—driven by rarity (only ~400 originally minted, with few high-grade survivors) and its symbolic appeal (Victoria as Una taming the lion, evoking British empire). The 2023 MDC sale stands out as the highest, possibly due to a exceptional example or heated bidding in Europe. In contrast, your specimen's 2026 price is the lowest here, suggesting a market dip (e.g., fewer international buyers at NYINC amid economic uncertainty). The 2020 MDC sale aligns closely with 2021 levels, showing stability before the apparent 2026 softening. If the 2023 lot was indeed higher-graded, it justifies the premium; otherwise, European auctions may command stronger prices for British rarities due to local collector bases. Long-term, these coins have appreciated well historically, but short-term fluctuations highlight the importance of timing and venue.
This Una and the Lion, the highest graded in the NGC Census, is being offered in a @HeritageAuction sale in January. It has an estimate of at least $500,000: https://t.co/znPpPGPAM4 #worldcoins #numismatics pic.twitter.com/23Za3WV9gU
— NGC (@NGCcoin) December 21, 2025
#HERITAGELIVE Sole finest certified representative of the classic British gold rarity, this 1839 Victoria gold proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds just sold with a record-breaking bid at $1,440, 000. Hear her roar! https://t.co/vhm5F6F2OO#HeritageAuctions #worldcoins pic.twitter.com/OF6QlVXhFZ
— Heritage Auctions (@HeritageAuction) August 20, 2021
3
PR66 Ultra Cameo by NGC
2020 SOLD for € 980K by MDC
A Una and the Lion graded PR66 Ultra Cameo (without the star) by NGC was sold for € 980K by MDC on October 29, 2020, lot 807.
1870 Meiji 3 Pattern Yen Set
2021 SOLD for $ 1.56M by Stack's Bowers
Emperor Meiji brings Japan out of its medieval period. The oval coin inscribed in ink is obsolete. They need, like everywhere else, a circular coin. Yen means round. The first tests, in the second year of the reign, relate to the smallest copper denominations.
Know-how cannot be acquired overnight. At the start of Meiji 3, 1870 CE, Japan commissions the British to prepare prototypes. This operation covers eight denominations : 10, 5 and 2 1/2 yen in gold, yen in silver, and four subdivisions in white metal or copper.
The prototypes are sent to Japan and a British engineer arrives in Osaka. The dies are kept in London, which probably explains why the designs will be changed. All subdivisions of the yen are replaced by multiples of the sen, the decimal value 2 yen replaces the fractional 2 1/2 and the 20 yen is added. In June 1871, the government formalizes the creation of the yen. In the meantime, Japan had bought from a trading house the production line abandoned by the British in Hong Kong in 1868.
These British prototypes are very rare.
There are two complete sets in existence of the eight values struck by Leonard Charles Wyon at the British Mint. One of them was sold for US $ 1.56M from a lower estimate of $ 750K by Stack's Bowers on April 6, 2021, lot 50043. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
All units have been certified by PCGS. The three gold coins are graded 67+, 67 and 67 and the others between 65 and 67. The yen is not in silver but in tin, confirming that it was a demonstration set.
The other full set is kept in Great Britain at the Royal Mint Museum.
Know-how cannot be acquired overnight. At the start of Meiji 3, 1870 CE, Japan commissions the British to prepare prototypes. This operation covers eight denominations : 10, 5 and 2 1/2 yen in gold, yen in silver, and four subdivisions in white metal or copper.
The prototypes are sent to Japan and a British engineer arrives in Osaka. The dies are kept in London, which probably explains why the designs will be changed. All subdivisions of the yen are replaced by multiples of the sen, the decimal value 2 yen replaces the fractional 2 1/2 and the 20 yen is added. In June 1871, the government formalizes the creation of the yen. In the meantime, Japan had bought from a trading house the production line abandoned by the British in Hong Kong in 1868.
These British prototypes are very rare.
There are two complete sets in existence of the eight values struck by Leonard Charles Wyon at the British Mint. One of them was sold for US $ 1.56M from a lower estimate of $ 750K by Stack's Bowers on April 6, 2021, lot 50043. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
All units have been certified by PCGS. The three gold coins are graded 67+, 67 and 67 and the others between 65 and 67. The yen is not in silver but in tin, confirming that it was a demonstration set.
The other full set is kept in Great Britain at the Royal Mint Museum.
The crown jewel of the Pinnacle Collection: the Japanese 1870 Pattern Set. This is one of two complete sets and is estimated at $750,000 to $1,500,000. View Lot 50043's Coins in Motion Highlight Video at https://t.co/Rg19OnsdhO. Bid on the lot here: https://t.co/bdifQaK7Ef pic.twitter.com/PHXjxOtQNx
— Stack's Bowers (@StacksBowers) April 4, 2021
1920 Sydney Gold Sovereign
2012 SOLD for £ 780K by Baldwin's
In 1816, in an act of normalization, the gold coin worth one pound sterling became known as the sovereign. Its characteristics have not changed since that time: 7.988 g, 22 mm diameter, 1.5 mm thick.
The British Empire extended over all regions of the world. It was logical that Australia, a major producer of gold, minted also these coins as soon as security enabled it. Coins made in Sydney, identified by the letter S, were issued from 1855 to 1926, for a total of 115 variants when separating the years.
For many decades, American collectors have built complete thematic series of their currencies composed of the best possible specimens. In other countries, this approach is still unfrequent. The sale by Baldwin's in three parts of the Bentley collection of British sovereigns shall be used as a reference.
The first sale, on 8 May 2012, included all variants made in London, with the exception of the 1819 sovereign which will be the top lot of the third sale in May 2013.
The second sale, on September 27, 2012, is devoted to colonial issues.
The 1920-S sovereign is an exceptional piece. The extreme rarity of this variant is not correlated with the statistics of the plant, but it is likely that almost all coins minted in Sydney in 1920 remained mintmarked from the previous year.
This coin had been sold for AUD 580K by its current owner in 2006 in an auction organized by KJC Coins. It fetched £ 780K at Baldwin's, lot 736.
It has been found in 2014 that the few surviving 1920-S sovereigns struck in 1920 were supplied to an NSW politician celebrating his gold wedding anniversary. The sovereign was expensive at that time in terms of gold content.
A 1920-S sovereign had been kept by the descendants of the man behind the special order, Jacob Garrard. Graded MS64+ by NGC, it is the finest mint state example known, pushing to 6 the population of that variety including one slightly damaged Royal Australian Mint specimen. Garrard had seven children. It was sold for $ 550K by Heritage on May 5, 2022, lot 30154.
Another ex Garrard was sold for £ 440K before fees by St.James's on March 5, 2014, lot 5. Now graded MS63 by PCGS, it was sold for $ 550K by Heritage on August 15, 2024, lot 30233.
The Garrard sovereigns were possibly not minted for his private order but are instead the only survivors of a normal production that was melted before release at some time in the 1920s due to the post war surge of the gold price.
A 1920-S sovereign novodel made in 1926 after cleaning the reverse die is also known. This story is narrated by Sterling & Currency. This coin graded SP66 by PCGS was sold for AUD 800K before fees by Monetarium on June 4, 2009, lot 196, and by MDC for € 760K before fees on June 12, 2021, lot 123 and for € 550K before fees on May 3-4, 2024, lot 204 here linked on NumisBids bidding platform.
The British Empire extended over all regions of the world. It was logical that Australia, a major producer of gold, minted also these coins as soon as security enabled it. Coins made in Sydney, identified by the letter S, were issued from 1855 to 1926, for a total of 115 variants when separating the years.
For many decades, American collectors have built complete thematic series of their currencies composed of the best possible specimens. In other countries, this approach is still unfrequent. The sale by Baldwin's in three parts of the Bentley collection of British sovereigns shall be used as a reference.
The first sale, on 8 May 2012, included all variants made in London, with the exception of the 1819 sovereign which will be the top lot of the third sale in May 2013.
The second sale, on September 27, 2012, is devoted to colonial issues.
The 1920-S sovereign is an exceptional piece. The extreme rarity of this variant is not correlated with the statistics of the plant, but it is likely that almost all coins minted in Sydney in 1920 remained mintmarked from the previous year.
This coin had been sold for AUD 580K by its current owner in 2006 in an auction organized by KJC Coins. It fetched £ 780K at Baldwin's, lot 736.
It has been found in 2014 that the few surviving 1920-S sovereigns struck in 1920 were supplied to an NSW politician celebrating his gold wedding anniversary. The sovereign was expensive at that time in terms of gold content.
A 1920-S sovereign had been kept by the descendants of the man behind the special order, Jacob Garrard. Graded MS64+ by NGC, it is the finest mint state example known, pushing to 6 the population of that variety including one slightly damaged Royal Australian Mint specimen. Garrard had seven children. It was sold for $ 550K by Heritage on May 5, 2022, lot 30154.
Another ex Garrard was sold for £ 440K before fees by St.James's on March 5, 2014, lot 5. Now graded MS63 by PCGS, it was sold for $ 550K by Heritage on August 15, 2024, lot 30233.
The Garrard sovereigns were possibly not minted for his private order but are instead the only survivors of a normal production that was melted before release at some time in the 1920s due to the post war surge of the gold price.
A 1920-S sovereign novodel made in 1926 after cleaning the reverse die is also known. This story is narrated by Sterling & Currency. This coin graded SP66 by PCGS was sold for AUD 800K before fees by Monetarium on June 4, 2009, lot 196, and by MDC for € 760K before fees on June 12, 2021, lot 123 and for € 550K before fees on May 3-4, 2024, lot 204 here linked on NumisBids bidding platform.
1921 Five Pound Australian Restrike
2021 SOLD for € 800K before fees by MDC
In 1851 the discovery of gold triggered a gold rush in Australia. A government assay office is founded in 1852 in Adelaide. A local engraver named Joshua Payne produced gold coins by using local equipment.
Denominations of 10 shillings, 1 pound and 5 pounds were planned. Only the one-pound was released for circulation.
The 5 pound pattern coin was inscribed with its office, its year, its value, its weight, its fineness of 22 karat and the name of J. Payne, plus the British crown. Following that first strike, a branch of the Royal Mint was established in Sydney and started producing gold sovereigns.
In 1921, the Melbourne Mint struck seven five pound gold coins by using Payne’s dies from 1852. An example graded SP 66+ by PCGS was sold for € 800K before fees by MDC on June 12, 2021, lot 104. Another example is kept at the Victoria Museum in Melbourne.
Denominations of 10 shillings, 1 pound and 5 pounds were planned. Only the one-pound was released for circulation.
The 5 pound pattern coin was inscribed with its office, its year, its value, its weight, its fineness of 22 karat and the name of J. Payne, plus the British crown. Following that first strike, a branch of the Royal Mint was established in Sydney and started producing gold sovereigns.
In 1921, the Melbourne Mint struck seven five pound gold coins by using Payne’s dies from 1852. An example graded SP 66+ by PCGS was sold for € 800K before fees by MDC on June 12, 2021, lot 104. Another example is kept at the Victoria Museum in Melbourne.
1936 Edward VIII Quintuple Sovereign
2021 SOLD for $ 2.3M by Heritage
The abdication of King Edward VIII on December 11, 1936 comes at the worst time for the monetary calendar : the British Royal Mint was ready to produce the coins, medals and seals on the date of 1937 with his effigy for the coronation ceremony. 200 dies are destroyed.
A few proof sets of £ 5, £ 2 and £ 1 gold coins which had been prepared for the ceremony are not destroyed. Their quantity is estimated at 6. Most have been separated. There are two complete sets left, one in the Royal Mint and one in private hands in the Tyrant collection.
The quintuple sovereign of Edward VIII is thus the most desirable coin in British numismatics. On March 26, 2021, Heritage sold the finest for $ 2.3M from a lower estimate of $ 1M, lot 30339.
This coin is close to perfection. It is graded PR 67 Ultra Cameo by NGC. It has never been taken in hand, leaving its surface absolutely intact. The videos shared by Heritage are a superb demonstration of the night and day effect on both sides. No other Edward VIII quintuple has been certified by NGC or PCGS.
It was sold for € 2.1M by MDC on October 20-21, 2021, lot 1050.
The highest auction price for another Edward VIII gold coin was for a Proof Cameo sovereign, sold for £ 520K by Baldwin's on May 8, 2014. It was later sold in a private transaction for £ 1M in January 2020.
A few proof sets of £ 5, £ 2 and £ 1 gold coins which had been prepared for the ceremony are not destroyed. Their quantity is estimated at 6. Most have been separated. There are two complete sets left, one in the Royal Mint and one in private hands in the Tyrant collection.
The quintuple sovereign of Edward VIII is thus the most desirable coin in British numismatics. On March 26, 2021, Heritage sold the finest for $ 2.3M from a lower estimate of $ 1M, lot 30339.
This coin is close to perfection. It is graded PR 67 Ultra Cameo by NGC. It has never been taken in hand, leaving its surface absolutely intact. The videos shared by Heritage are a superb demonstration of the night and day effect on both sides. No other Edward VIII quintuple has been certified by NGC or PCGS.
It was sold for € 2.1M by MDC on October 20-21, 2021, lot 1050.
The highest auction price for another Edward VIII gold coin was for a Proof Cameo sovereign, sold for £ 520K by Baldwin's on May 8, 2014. It was later sold in a private transaction for £ 1M in January 2020.
2007 1 million CAD bullion coin
2010 SOLD for € 3.27M before fees by Dorotheum
A "bullion coin" is produced for investment and not for circulation. These coins have a facial value, by similarity with the ordinary currency, but their real value is their weight of metal.
Gold bullion coins generally have a purity of 99.99%.
In 2007, the Royal Canadian Mint announces the launch of a product line to 99.999%. And as now the only way to get noticed is gigantism, they produce a coin with facial value of 1 million Canadian $. A small number of investors will then order similar parts.
The piece measures 53 cm in diameter, 3 cm thick, and weighs 100 kg. Chemists will appreciate this remarkable feat of engineering. The obverse is a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse shows the emblem of Canada, three maple leaves. Its value to weight is approximately € 3.2 million.
The example that was owned by an Austrian financial company for € 3.27M before fees by Dorotheum on June 25, 2010, near the metal value to weight. Funny fate for this symbol of capitalism : the owner has gone bankrupt !
Gold bullion coins generally have a purity of 99.99%.
In 2007, the Royal Canadian Mint announces the launch of a product line to 99.999%. And as now the only way to get noticed is gigantism, they produce a coin with facial value of 1 million Canadian $. A small number of investors will then order similar parts.
The piece measures 53 cm in diameter, 3 cm thick, and weighs 100 kg. Chemists will appreciate this remarkable feat of engineering. The obverse is a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse shows the emblem of Canada, three maple leaves. Its value to weight is approximately € 3.2 million.
The example that was owned by an Austrian financial company for € 3.27M before fees by Dorotheum on June 25, 2010, near the metal value to weight. Funny fate for this symbol of capitalism : the owner has gone bankrupt !
