1979 Isle of Man Millennium Gold Proof Sovereign

A fascinating departure from traditional British numismatics, this 22-carat gold sovereign was minted by the Pobjoy Mint to celebrate the Isle of Man Millennium (979–1979). Rather than the standard St. George motif, the reverse of this coin features a striking Norse warrior on horseback, a powerful tribute to the island's Viking heritage and the 1,000-year history of Tynwald, the Manx parliament.

Struck to a flawless Proof finish, this coin showcases the intricate detail of the Norse imagery against a deep, mirrored background. The obverse features the "Decimal" portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin. This coin is highly sought after by collectors for its unique regional design and its significance as a milestone commemorative issue.

Presented in a luxury wooden case by Harrington & Byrne, it remains an essential piece for those specializing in Isle of Man or alternative sovereign coinage.

Key Features

• 22-carat Gold: Struck in .9167 fine gold, meeting the global standard for sovereign purity and weight.

• Commemorative Millennium Design: Features a unique Norse warrior motif, exclusively issued to mark 1,000 years of the Isle of Man's Tynwald.

• Pobjoy Mint Craftsmanship: Produced by the world-renowned private mint, known for its high-quality commemorative strikes.

• Proof Quality Excellence: Multiple strikes with polished dies have created a sharp contrast between the frosted relief and reflective fields.

• Historical Rarity: A standout alternative to the traditional UK sovereign, offering distinct aesthetic and historical appeal.

Technical Specifications

• Year of Issue: 1979

• Issuing Authority: Isle of Man (Minted by Pobjoy Mint)

• Metal: 22-carat Gold (.9167 Fineness)

• Weight: 7.98 g

• Diameter: 22.05 mm

• Finish: Proof

• Obverse: Queen Elizabeth II (Arnold Machin)

• Reverse: Norse Warrior on Horseback (Millennium Design)