Extremely rare 1891-M Melbourne Sovereign with the 'Short Tail' reverse, rated R5 by Marsh and exceptionally difficult to find. The newly introduced 'Long Tail' appears on all Sydney sovereigns of this year, while only a tiny fraction of Melbourne sovereigns are known with the earlier Short Tail.

Surviving examples are almost exclusively found in lower grades, with just five examples currently graded MS61 by PCGS. Production may have resulted from the use of a single reverse die, and the rarity of this variety cannot be overstated.

Queen’s veiled head facing to the left with small crown, Garter Riband and Star, Albert Order. Initials 'J.E.B.' denoting in truncation denoting engraver Joseph Edgar Boehm. St. George mounted with sword attacking the dragon. The date appears below the exergue line at the bottom with the small letters B.P. to the right.

Coin Specifications

Struck - Melbourne Mint ('M') Second Obverse Type

Calendar Year Mintage 2,749,592 / DISH M16 Est 2,735,845

Ref Spink S.3867C / Marsh 135 / DISH M16

Obverse Legend : VICTORIA D:G:BRITT:REG:F:D:

Milled: Rev: BP: Benedetto Pistrucci

Purity 917/1000 gold 

Weight: 7.98g / Diameter: 22.05mm

Obverse by Joseph Edgar Boehm

Featuring Reverse design of St George & the dragon by Benedetto Pistrucci

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