Knowing the exact specifications of an authentic Gold Sovereign is essential for verification. Any deviation from these specifications is a strong indicator of a counterfeit.
Physical Specifications
Weight
7.98g (0.2354 troy oz)
Diameter
22.05mm
Thickness
1.52mm
Purity
22 karat
Fine Gold Content
0.2354 troy oz
Composition
Gold
91.67%
Copper
8.33%
Note: Contains 0.2354 troy oz of pure gold in 22k alloy
How to Spot a Fake Gold Sovereign
Counterfeit Gold Sovereign coins are increasingly common in the precious metals market. Learning to identify fake coins is crucial to protecting your investment. This guide covers everything you need to know about authenticating your Gold Sovereign.
Warning: Sophisticated counterfeits can fool visual inspection alone. Always use multiple authentication methods including the ping test, precise measurements, and weight verification.
Common Counterfeit Types
Gold-plated base metal copies
Lower karat gold coins
Brass or bronze coins with gold plating
Tungsten-filled gold plated coins
Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Coin
Incorrect weight (should be 7.98g)
Wrong diameter (should be 22.05mm)
Dull or flat ping sound
Magnetic attraction
Poor detail on St George and dragon design
Incorrect edge milling
Wrong color tone
Acoustic Authentication: The Ping Test
The ping test is one of the most reliable methods for detecting counterfeit precious metal coins. When tapped, genuine Gold Sovereign coins produce a distinctive resonance frequency that counterfeits cannot replicate.
Resonance Frequencies
c0d2
6234 Hz
c0d3
10876 Hz
c0d4
15234 Hz
c1d0
8456 Hz
c1d1
12987 Hz
Acoustic Signature
High-pitched distinctive ring due to small size and gold-copper alloy
Why the Ping Test Works: The resonance frequency of a coin is determined by its material properties (density, elasticity, composition) and physical dimensions. Even sophisticated counterfeits with similar appearance will produce different frequencies if they don't have the exact same composition and dimensions.
How to Authenticate Your Gold Sovereign
Use these proven methods to verify the authenticity of your Gold Sovereign. For best results, use multiple authentication techniques together.
Ping test - authentic Sovereigns have a clear, high-pitched ring
Precise weight measurement (7.98g)
Verify diameter with calipers (22.05mm)
Visual inspection of fine detail quality
Check edge milling pattern
Magnet test
Compare to known authentic coin
About the Gold Sovereign
The modern Gold Sovereign was first minted in 1817 and has been struck intermittently since. It's one of the UK's most historic coins and is CGT exempt for UK residents.
Authenticate Your Gold Sovereign in Seconds
Download the Pingcoin app and use acoustic authentication to instantly verify your Gold Sovereign and other precious metal coins.
The ping test is highly effective for detecting counterfeit Gold Sovereign coins. The Pingcoin app analyzes the acoustic signature with precision and compares it against verified reference values. However, we recommend using it alongside other methods like weight and dimension verification for complete confidence.
What should I do if my Gold Sovereign fails the ping test?
If your coin doesn't pass the ping test, it doesn't automatically mean it's fake. Environmental factors or coin damage can affect results. We recommend:
Test multiple times in a quiet environment
Verify weight and dimensions with precise tools
Have the coin professionally authenticated if significant value is at stake
Contact our community on Discord for support
Where can I buy authentic Gold Sovereign coins?
Purchase from reputable dealers such as:
Government mints directly
Established precious metals dealers with good reputations
Major online bullion retailers with buyer protection
Local coin shops with verifiable credentials
Always authenticate coins immediately upon receipt, especially when buying from new sources.