1870 Sydney Mint Sovereign - PCGS MS62

Australia, 1870 Sydney Mint Sovereign -

Like all Sydney Mint wreath sovereigns, the 1870 is scarce in Mint State. So-called “UNC” examples that are not certified by PCGS are often touched off on the high points and grade AU58 when sent over to PCGS for assessment. The 1870 Sydney Mint sovereign is also known for being soft in strike on the wreath on the obverse, with flatness evident on the high points. The presence of full lustre is what distinguishes a circulated coin with a worn wreath and a mint state coin with a weakly-struck wreath. Very well-struck coins are rare, and deserve to trade at a premium. If you’re seeking a high-grade representation of a Sydney Mint sovereign, but don’t want to pay multiple thousands for a rarer date, then the 1870 is the date to aim for.