File:Eng c1544 sovereign obv P176-20062.jpg

This specimen was lot 20062 in Ponterio sale 176 (Chicago, August 2013), where it sold for $22,325. The catalog description^[1] noted, "GREAT BRITAIN. Henry VIII, 1509-1547. Sovereign, ND (1544-47). S/S. Southwark. Rare Third Coinage Southwark Sovereign S-2291; North-1825; Fr-166. 189.8 grains. Seated king holding orb and scepter, different styling from the second coinage, Tudor rose at base of feet. Rv. Crowned shield supported by lion and rampant dragon. A significant type that was debased to 20 carats at a much lesser weight. An attractive rarity that is evenly worn and problem-free, though an old, light cleaning is noted with some resulting fine hairlines seen with a glass. The coin has retoned since then and is quite handsome. Henry VIII Sovereigns are not often offered in American auction sales, making this a fine opportunity. About Very Fine. Ex: Sotheby’s, 1981."