Michael H. asks: Were British gold sovereigns really used as emergency money for US troops during war at any time in the past or present? Why are they so reasonably priced? You can buy almost three common sovereigns for the price of a common five dollar half eagle.
British Sovereigns were an international trade coin and made in vast numbers. Today they are just gold, though rare dates exist. They contain .2354 or just under a quarter ounce of pure gold and trade in quantity as bullion items.
Because Sovereigns were so well known, they were packaged in emergency kits for U.S. fliers as far back as WW II for use in case they were shot down. Having a few gold sovereigns might get you out of trouble and back to your lines.
