Victoria gold Proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds 1839 PR63 Ultra Cameo NGC, KM742, S-3851, W&R-278 (R4), Marsh-F23 (R3...

Description

Legendary Una and the Lion in Notable Preservation

Victoria gold Proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds 1839 PR63 Ultra Cameo NGC, KM742, S-3851, W&R-278 (R4), Marsh-F23 (R3). Medal alignment. DECUS ET TUTAMEN * ANNO REGNI TERTIO * edge. DIRIGE legend, 6 scrolls, and 11 leaves. By William Wyon. Struck exclusively for inclusion in Queen Victoria's long-delayed 1839 Proof Set, this piece captures the height of medallic artistry. The mintage, reportedly limited to just over 400 pieces, was quickly outpaced by demand. So enduring was its appeal that the Royal Mint continued producing examples on request for nearly half a century, until 1886. This particularly Choice specimen stands out not only for its precise execution, but for the lovely preservation of its design. Victoria's youthful effigy—so exacting in its grace and clarity—projects with remarkable aesthetic against the deeply mirrored fields, enhanced by an uncommonly thick and nearly undisturbed frost. Few examples display such an untouched appearance on the devices, especially on the obverse portrait, which remains superbly unblemished. Though minor wisps and hairlines are noted for accuracy, the level of preservation witnessed here elevates an already celebrated design, allowing Wyon's craftsmanship to emerge with striking immediacy. A type that continues to resonate with collectors nearly two centuries later—less for its rarity alone than for the quiet brilliance of its execution, and the timeless beauty it preserves. Accompanied by a collector's ticket and Baldwin's envelope.

From the Peh Family Collection

Metal: Gold
Diameter: 35.5mm
Weight: 39.9403g
AGW: 1.1775oz
Melt Value: $5,277.56
Gold Spot: $4,482/oz (01-06-2026 8:04PM CT)
Mintage: 400

More information about Great Britain Coins. See also: Great Britain World Coin Nationality.

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

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