The 1998 Gold Proof Five Sovereign marks an important moment in modern British coinage. It was the first year to feature Ian Rank-Broadley’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, replacing the earlier Raphael Maklouf effigy and introducing a more mature representation of the monarch. Struck in 22-carat gold, the Five Sovereign is the largest traditional denomination of the sovereign family and has always occupied a prestigious place within British numismatics. With an individual proof mintage of only 789 pieces, the 1998 issue is particularly scarce. This example has been graded PF 70 Ultra Cameo by NGC, the highest possible grade, making it an exceptional specimen of an already low-mintage modern British gold issue. Great Britain — 1998 Gold Proof Five Sovereign. NGC PF 70 Ultra Cameo. 39.94 g, 22ct gold, 1.177 oz AGW. Mintage: 789. NGC Certification: 6672584-026.