This is an example of the famed gold sovereign. It was struck in London in 1852, perhaps from gold sent from the new discoveries in Australia. This coin may even have been brought to Australia by someone taking part in the gold rush. This sovereign design is commonly known as the shield type. The design was later used at both the Sydney and Melbourne Mints, being distinguished from the London coins only by the addition of a tiny letter S or M under the bow at the base of the wreath.

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Obverse – Head of a young Queen Victoria and the date 1852. Around the head is the Latin legend VICTORIA DEI GRATIA [Victoria by the grace of God]. On the Queen's neck are the letters W.W., the initials of the artist William Wyon.		Reverse – Within a wreath of olive branches, the crowned arms of Great Britain. Below the wreath is a rose, shamrock and thistle. Continuing from the obverse is the Latin legend BRITANNIARUM REGINA FID: DEF: [Queen of the Britons, defender of the faith].

Transferred from Melbourne Mint, 1978