1863 Great Britain Gold Sovereign, No Die Number NGC AU58 Ex. RMS Douro

Numismatists who enjoy collecting British sovereigns should take a close look at this listing. A survivor of the tragic wreck of the RMS Douro, this attractive piece is quite collectible in the grade of AU58. NGC has graded 31 as AU58 with just 19 finer.  

The RMS Douro. This offering from AUCM sunk in the ship in 1882.

RMS Douro

It was during the year 1865 that the RMS Douro was constructed at Caird & Company Shipyards in Scotland. She measured 326 feet long by 40 feet wide. This luxurious ship provided accommodations for 253 1st class, 30 2nd class, and 30 3rd class passengers, as well as officers and crew that numbered 80. The RMS Douro was known for a chic clientele, sumptuous dining, music and laughter, which was equaled by its standing for dependability and speed.  The year 1869 saw the Douro switch from working the West Indies run to South American trade between Southampton and Buenos Aires. In addition to trade, she also transported luxurious goods and cargo on the South American run. The bullion room was stocked full with gold and brilliant Brazilian diamonds. The Douro also carried letters and newspapers, for she was a contract-bound Royal Mail ship.