RARE IN MINT STATE: 1871-S SYDNEY MINT SHIELD SOVEREIGN This is a premier investment-grade asset for the serious collector of Australian colonial gold. Professionally authenticated and graded by NGC as MS 61, this 1871-S Sovereign is a standout survivor of the Sydney Mint’s first year producing the Imperial Shield design. Key Numismatic Features: Rare "WW Raised" Variety: This specimen features the designer William Wyon’s initials in relief (raised) on the truncation of Victoria’s neck. This is the more desirable and harder-to-find variety compared to the incuse versions. First Year of Issue: 1871 marks the pivotal transition at the Sydney Mint from the local "Sydney Mint" design to the British Imperial Young Head/Shield series. Grade Rarity: Finding 19th-century Australian gold in true Mint State is increasingly difficult. While many 1871-S coins circulated heavily in the goldfields, this example retains sharp frosty luster and crisp strike details. With gold prices currently trading at historic highs, the intrinsic bullion value of this coin provides a massive floor, but the true value lies in the numismatic premium. This first-year Sydney Shield is a staple of "Type Set" collectors and continues to see strong demand in the Australian market. See images for correct impression.