In 1984 the Royal Mint issued three United Kingdom gold proof coins, with maximum minting limits of 22,500 each for the half-sovereign and sovereign, and 8,000 of the five pound denomination. A number have been reserved for issue as a three-coin gold collection.
The classic reverse design of the coins depicts the Benedetto Pistrucci portrayal of St George, on horseback, slaying the dragon. The engraver’s initials ‘BP’ can be found on the base under the right rear hoof of the horse. The obverse depicts the renowned Arnold Machin portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II which has appeared on nearly all United Kingdom coinage since 1968.
