Proof sovereign of George IV (coronation year)
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.5 mm
Classification
Coins
Culture
British
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Assunta Sommella Peluso, Ada Peluso, and Romano I. Peluso, in memory of Ignazio Peluso, 2002
Accession Number
2002.205.4
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the exquisite *Proof Sovereign of George IVCoronation Year)*, crafted in 1821 by the masterful Italian-born engraver Benedetto Pistr. This diminutive gold coin, just 24.5 mm in diameter, exemplifies the pinnacle British numismatic art. On the obverse, a profile portrait of King George IV faces left, capturing his regal bearing during his 1821 coronation. The reverse, Pistrucci's iconic design, depicts the heroic St. George slaying a ferocious dragon while astride a dynamic horse, sword raised triumphantly—elements that evoke chivalry and national pride. As a "proof" strike, this coin w...
About the Artist
Benedetto Pistrucci · 1783–1855
Italian, 1783–1855, active England