Sovereigns vs 20 Francs

Among the most popular historic European gold coins are the British Sovereign and the French 20 Franc. Both offer strong recognition, fractional size convenience, and historical appeal, making them favorites among investors and collectors alike. Understanding the differences in design, gold content, and premiums can help you choose the right fit for your portfolio.

History and Recognition

• Sovereign: First struck in 1489, the modern Sovereign was reintroduced in 1817 during the reign of George III. Issued by the Royal Mint, it has become one of the most widely recognized small gold coins in the world.
• 20 Francs: Minted throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, 20 Franc coins came in several designs, including the Napoleon III Head and the iconic Gallic Rooster. Issued by the French Mint, they are highly sought after by both investors and collectors.

Gold Content and Specifications

• Sovereign: Contains 0.2354 troy ounces of gold (22 karat, 91.67% purity), alloyed for durability. Its slightly larger size and reddish hue make it easy to identify.
• 20 Franc: Contains 0.1867 troy ounces of gold (21.6 karat, 90% purity). Despite lower gold content, its historical value and classic artistry maintain strong demand.

Premiums and Affordability

• Sovereign: Premiums tend to be modest, often lower than modern fractional bullion coins, making them accessible for investors seeking small units of gold.
• 20 Franc: Premiums vary by design and condition. Roosters and common issues are often affordable, while rarer types like the Marianne or earlier Napoleonic issues command higher premiums.

Liquidity and Market Appeal

• Sovereign: Extremely liquid due to global recognition, especially in Commonwealth countries.
• 20 Franc: Popular across Europe and increasingly recognized in U.S. markets. Liquidity may depend more on dealer familiarity.

Key Takeaways

• Sovereign = Global Recognition. Backed by centuries of history, widely traded worldwide.
• 20 Franc = Variety and Collectibility. Offers multiple designs with both investment and collectible appeal.
• Fractional Gold Advantage. Both coins provide small, affordable units of gold with historic pedigree.