| Description de l’avers |
Right facing head of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the George IV State Diadem, legend around, date below; privymark on left |
| Écriture de l’avers |
Latin |
| Légende de l’avers |
ELIZABETH II · DEI · GRA REGINA · GIBRALTAR 1926-2022 RDM 70 · 2022 · (Translation: Elizabeth the Second by the Grace of God Queen) |
| Description du revers |
A ‘then’ and ‘now’ portrait of Queen Elizabeth II divided by a sceptre with St Edward’s crown featured at the top and the shield of the Royal Coat of Arms with sprigs of oak at the bottom |
| Écriture du revers |
Latin |
| Légende du revers |
I DECLARE BEFORE YOU ALL THAT MY WHOLE LIFE WHETHER IT BE LONG OR SHORT SHALL BE DEVOTED TO YOUR SERVICE AND THE SERVICE OF OUR GREAT IMPERIAL FAMILY TO WHICH WE ALL BELONG |
| Tranche |
Reeded |
| Atelier |
|
| Tirage |
2022 - Proof - 2 999 |
| ID Numisquare |
1393141580 |
Historical Context: This 2022 Gibraltar 1 Sovereign gold coin holds profound historical significance, marking the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Issued by a British Overseas Territory, it commemorates an unprecedented seventy years of service, a milestone celebrated globally in June 2022. The "Posthumous" designation, despite its 2022 issue, uniquely positions it as one of the final numismatic tributes to the monarch following her passing later that year, bridging jubilee celebration with poignant remembrance. It stands as a testament to an era-defining reign.
Artistry: The design of this Sovereign is particularly notable for its "Two Portraits" of Queen Elizabeth II, a poignant artistic choice that likely contrasts an earlier effigy with a later, more mature depiction. This dual portrayal symbolically encapsulates the seventy-year span of her reign. While specific engraver details are absent, the stylistic execution adheres to classical British numismatic tradition, emphasizing regal dignity and intricate detail. The obverse typically features the monarch, with the reverse often bearing the iconic St. George and the Dragon, though jubilee issues sometimes vary.
Technical/Grading: Struck in 22-carat gold (.9167 fineness) with a standard weight of 7.98 grams and a diameter of 22.05 millimeters, this Sovereign maintains the historical specifications of the series. Collectors should seek examples exhibiting a full, sharp strike, particularly across the high-points of the Queen's portraits—her hair and regalia—and, if present, the musculature of St. George's horse and dragon's scales. A strong cartwheel luster and minimal bag marks are crucial indicators of a high-grade specimen, reflecting its commemorative status and precious metal composition.