With gold prices at unprecedented heights, many collectors and investors wonder: Should I sell gold coins now? If you inherited sovereigns or have pieces tucked away, understanding where and when to sell gold coins makes a significant financial difference.
Why now is the time to sell gold coins
The full gold sovereign dated 1904 on the left sold for £305 a year and a half before the coin on the right, which sold for £525
Record prices mean sovereigns fetch substantially more than they did just months ago. A 1904 full sovereign sold for £305 in November 2023, while an identical sovereign sold for £525 in July 2025, a 72% increase.
Another example, this George V full gold sovereign dated 1911 sold for £340 in March 2024 (left), and £740 in October 2025 (right)
A George V full sovereign dated 1911 sold for £340 in March 2024 and reached £740 in October 2025, representing a 118% increase.
Understanding gold sovereigns
When you sell gold coins, understand that sovereigns can hold value beyond gold content. Full sovereigns contain 7.98 grams of 22-carat gold, but market value typically exceeds bullion price. Rarity, historical significance, and condition determine where a sovereign sits in the market. Knowing where to sell gold coins matters; the right venue recognises these attributes.
Where to sell gold coins for maximum return
This US $1-dollar Gold Coin, dated 1862, sold for £400 in October 2025
Choosing where to sell gold coins is crucial. High-street jewellers and dealers typically pay scrap prices; some can pay more. When you sell gold coins at auction, you access a global marketplace of collectors who understand numismatic value.
Potteries Auctions offers 0% commission on gold coins; you keep 100% of the hammer price. Expert valuers understand sovereigns and rare issues, setting reserves while attracting bidders. The auction house uses a precious metals analyser providing instant verification, helping you sell gold coins at optimal prices.
Current market conditions
Gold recently surpassed $4,000 per troy ounce, while silver hit $50, levels not seen in over a decade.
What’s Driving Record Prices:
International Trade Tensions: US-China trade disputes drive investors toward safe-haven assets. Expanded sanctions create uncertainty, pushing buyers toward gold and sovereigns.
Monetary Policy Shifts: Central banks implement rate cuts, creating favourable conditions. When rates decline while inflation expectations remain stable, gold’s attractiveness increases significantly.
Supply Constraints: Silver supply pressures affect precious metals markets. Over 15 million ounces were withdrawn from Comex warehouses in October 2025. Silver lease rates rocketed to 33%, unprecedented levels signalling severe stress.
Investment Demand: Investors and institutional buyers dramatically increased gold holdings, creating sustained pressure benefiting anyone looking to sell gold coins.
A George V Gold Five Pound Piece, dated 1911, sold for £6,100
Market disruption creating auction advantages
Current volatility causes havoc across the precious metals and antiques markets. Many high-street gold dealers suspended trading, unable to manage pricing risk when values fluctuate dramatically. Institutional investors suspended silver ETF investments due to premiums trading 8-10% above spot prices.
The auction model eliminates pricing risk. When you sell gold coins at auction, buyers determine fair market value through competitive bidding. Multiple bidders compete for sovereigns, driving prices upward.
Recent results
Potteries Auctions’ October 2025 sale demonstrates why now’s the time to sell gold coins. With gold at £97.43 per gram on October 9th, gold items achieved hammer prices up to 64% higher than spot value. This premium reflects competitive bidding and global reach.
A George V double sovereign, dated 1911 sold for £2,900 in October 2025
Consignors travelled from Birmingham, Crewe, and Stourbridge for the 0% commission offer, unavailable through local buyers where many stopped purchasing.
Take a look at the full catalogue of results here.
Ready to sell your gold coins?
Historic gold prices and Potteries Auctions’ 0% commission create exceptional opportunity. While local dealers suspend operations, auction platforms deliver results. When you sell gold coins through a reputable auction house with global reach and zero commission, you maximise returns.
We offer free valuations every Tuesday at our Silverdale saleroom. Specialist valuer Roderick Gibson holds sessions the last Thursday each month.
Book your free in-person valuation here, call 01782 638100, or email enquiries@potteriesauctions.com. With gold at record highs and 0% commission, discover where to sell gold coins for maximum return.