Sovereign: Broad Crowned Shield of Arms, Olive Branches and National Emblems (reverse) by William Wyon

Sovereign: Broad Crowned Shield of Arms, Olive Branches and National Emblems (reverse)

William Wyon · 1839

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“Stop to appreciate the incredible detail on this 1839 British gold sovereign. It's a miniature masterpiece of engraving, showcasing national symbols from early in Queen Victoria's reign.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This small gold coin, a sovereign from 1839, features a meticulously engraved reverse design. At its center, a crowned shield of arms is prominently displayed, representing the United Kingdom. Surrounding this central emblem, olive branches symbolize peace, while other national emblems subtly fill the composition. The intricate details, despite the coin's small size, showcase the engraver's skill in rendering complex heraldry and natural forms. This piece was created early in Queen Victoria's reign, a period marked by significant changes in British coinage and national identity. The design reflects the era's neoclassical aesthetic, emphasizing clear lines and symbolic imagery.

DETAILS
Artist
William Wyon
Date
1839
Medium
gold
Location
Cleveland Museum of Art
Dimensions
[object Object]
Collection
Medieval Art
Culture
England, Victoria, 1837-1901
Credit line
The Norweb Collection
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What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Sovereign: Broad Crowned Shield of Arms, Olive Branches and National Emblems (reverse)
01

The tiny crown atop the shield, showing individual jewels.

02

The delicate leaves and berries on the olive branches.

03

The different textures within the heraldic shield.

04

The precise lettering around the coin's edge.

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THE ARTIST

William Wyon

1795–1851 · British Empire

William Wyon, Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint, left an indelible mark on British coinage and even the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black.

Read Wyon’s full story
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