A special anniversary set pairs a modern Proof coin commemorating the introduction of the gold standard with a 1931 Sovereign struck during the year that Britain finally left the system 90 years ago. Charting the fascinating history of the gold standard and providing a direct link to the seismic events that saw its eventual demise, it affords the opportunity to own an historic edition of The Sovereign, the coin that once underpinned this global monetary system.

The Gold Standard

Brought about by Sir Isaac Newton’s famous report of 1717, a gold standard was eventually written into law in 1821. Backed by the newly revived Sovereign, the system persisted until the outbreak of the First World War when financial pressures drove gold out of circulation. The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Winston Churchill, returned Britain to a gold standard in 1925 but its restoration was short lived. Gripped by an economic crisis, Britain abandoned it altogether in 1931. As we mark the anniversary of the first formal gold standard, The Royal Mint is delighted to present this special gold coin commemorating its place in financial history. Finished to Proof standard and available in one ounce and quarter ounce editions, it features an original design by Dominique Evans, a senior designer at The Royal Mint. Inspired by the quest to maintain economic equilibrium, the scales and compass points convey a sense of balance and connectivity. 

The Coin Design

“My grandfather was a bank manager who had a large set of scales from the bank, which I have inherited. They very much naturally became the integral part of the design and I am delighted that they have become part of a coin design of which my grandad would have been so very proud. Every time I get some good luck or have made a step towards achieving something, I say a ‘cheers’ to him. He was one of the people who allowed me to believe I could pursue my dreams and, because of that, I am doing what I love, which is such a precious thing.”