15 Dollars - Elizabeth II 4th Portrait - Half Sovereign - Gold Bullion Coin

Historical Context: The 15 Dollars Elizabeth II 4th Portrait Half Sovereign, issued by Australia between 2015 and 2017, represents a modern continuation of a venerable numismatic tradition. During the later period of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, marked by stability, Australia embraced the sovereign's heritage as a bullion investment vehicle. This coin, while bearing a nominal face value, primarily served the global gold market, blending historical significance with contemporary economic purpose, a testament to the enduring appeal of gold coinage.

Artistry: The obverse features Ian Rank-Broadley's dignified Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, a contemporary realistic portrayal depicting Her Majesty facing right, adorned with the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The reverse proudly displays Benedetto Pistrucci's iconic Neoclassical design of St. George on horseback slaying the dragon, a motif that has graced British sovereigns since 1817. This fusion of modern portraiture with a timeless classical reverse creates a visually compelling and historically resonant coin.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .9167 fine gold, weighing 3.994 grams and measuring 20 millimeters, this Half Sovereign exhibits excellent technical qualities typical of modern bullion issues. Key high-points for strike assessment include the intricate details of the Queen's tiara and hair on the obverse. On the reverse, critical areas are St. George's helmet, the horse's musculature, and the dragon's scales and wings. A strong strike will show full, sharp definition in these areas, indicative of a high-grade specimen, often with proof-like fields.