Buy the 1982 Half Gold Sovereign Coin from Swift Gold
The 1982 Half Gold Sovereign is a classic British gold coin that combines Royal Mint heritage, recognised gold content and valuable UK tax advantages.
Struck by The Royal Mint in 22-carat gold, the coin weighs approximately 3.99 grams and contains around 3.66 grams of pure gold, equivalent to approximately 0.1177 troy ounces. Its compact size makes it an accessible option for investors looking to purchase fractional physical gold, and its specific 1982 date appeals to collectors and gift buyers.
The obverse features Arnold Machin’s second definitive coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse displays Benedetto Pistrucci’s famous depiction of St George slaying the dragon, one of the most recognisable designs in British coinage.
Customers can order online 24 hours a day at www.swiftgold.co.uk and choose fully insured UK delivery or Next Working Day Collection after payment has been received.
Key Features
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | United Kingdom |
| Mint | The Royal Mint |
| Year | 1982 |
| Denomination | Half Sovereign |
| Metal | Gold |
| Gold Purity | 916.7 Fine Gold |
| Carat | 22 Carat |
| Total Weight | Approximately 3.99g |
| Fine Gold Content | Approximately 3.66g |
| Fine Gold Weight | Approximately 0.1177 Troy Ounces |
| Diameter | Approximately 19.30mm |
| Obverse | Queen Elizabeth II |
| Obverse Designer | Arnold Machin RA |
| Reverse | St George and the Dragon |
| Reverse Designer | Benedetto Pistrucci |
| VAT Status | VAT Exempt Investment Gold |
| CGT Status | CGT Exempt under Current UK Rules |
| Delivery | Fully Insured UK Delivery |
| Collection | Next Day Collection Available |
The 1982 Half Sovereign Design
The obverse of the 1982 Half Sovereign features the second definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, created by British sculptor Arnold Machin.
The portrait shows Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, which was presented to her by Queen Mary. Machin’s portrait first appeared on British decimal coins in 1968 and remained in use on Sovereigns until it was replaced by Raphael Maklouf’s portrait during the 1980s.
The reverse carries Benedetto Pistrucci’s celebrated St George and the Dragon design. St George is shown on horseback, holding a sword as he defeats the dragon. The year 1982 appears beneath the design alongside Pistrucci’s initials.
The combination of the Machin portrait and Pistrucci reverse makes the 1982 Half Sovereign instantly recognisable as a classic Queen Elizabeth II-era British gold coin.
Struck in 22-Carat Gold
Each 1982 Half Sovereign is struck in 22-carat gold with a fineness of 916.7.
The coin has a total weight of approximately 3.99 grams and a diameter of around 19.30mm. Its pure gold content is approximately 3.66 grams, making it half the gold weight of a standard Full Sovereign.
The remaining metal is alloyed with the gold to improve the coin’s durability. This traditional 22-carat composition has been used for modern British Sovereigns for generations and contributes to their distinctive appearance.
The Return of the Half Sovereign
The Half Sovereign returned as a modern bullion coin in 1982, following a long period without regular bullion production. The Royal Mint records sales of 2.5 million bullion Half Sovereigns dated 1982, making this an important year in the modern history of the denomination.
Proof-quality 1982 Half Sovereigns were also produced. Unless specifically described as a Proof coin, this product should be treated as an investment or bullion example. The coin may show light marks, scratches or other signs of previous handling and storage.
Original Royal Mint packaging or a certificate of authenticity is included only where specifically stated in the product listing.
Capital Gains Tax Exempt
The 1982 Half Sovereign is British legal tender and is treated as sterling currency under current UK tax rules.
HMRC states that Sovereigns minted from 1837 onwards are exempt from Capital Gains Tax. This means that gains made when qualifying Sovereigns are sold are not currently subject to CGT.
This can provide an advantage over gold bars and many foreign bullion coins, particularly for investors building larger or long-term physical gold holdings.
VAT-Exempt Investment Gold
The 1982 Half Gold Sovereign can qualify as VAT-exempt investment gold when supplied in accordance with HMRC’s investment-gold requirements.
HMRC defines qualifying investment gold coins as coins minted after 1800 that have a purity of at least 900 thousandths, are or have been legal tender in their country of origin and normally sell within the permitted value relative to their gold content.
Tax rules may change, and individual circumstances can vary. Independent professional advice should be considered where appropriate.
Buy the 1982 Half Gold Sovereign from Swift Gold
The 1982 Half Gold Sovereign is suitable for fractional gold investment, portfolio diversification, year-specific collecting and gifts marking a birthday, anniversary or other special event connected with 1982.
Order your 1982 Half Gold Sovereign Coin today from www.swiftgold.co.uk and choose fully insured UK delivery or convenient Next Working Day Collection after payment has been received.


