dimensions of sovereigns alloyed with Silver vs Copper?

[Hotdog]

As Silver and Copper have different densities, do the earlier sovereigns that used the different alloying metals have differing dimensions?

[stackerp5]

Hi @Hotdog, the Numista website has diameter specification for coins. It appears Elizabeth II sovereigns have a diameter of 22.05mm while George V are 22mm, a negligible difference so probably the thickness changed. I wouldn't be able to tell you for sure as I only have a copper alloy sovereign.

[LawrenceChard]

3 hours ago, Hotdog said:

As Silver and Copper have different densities, do the earlier sovereigns that used the different alloying metals have differing dimensions?

You could probably work it out:

Density of gold: 19.32

Silver: 10.49

Copper: 8.96

All in grams per cubic centimetre.

In most pre-QEII sovereigns, the silver content is about 3 parts per thousand

Assume gold content is 917 ppt

Leaving copper 80 ppt

It's getting late, so I will leave you to do the maths (math if you are American). 

Tip, assume all sovereigns are the same diameter 22.05 mms, although the ooffoicial specifications do allow for tolerance, variation, error, remedy, or whatever else you want to call it.

Have fun, I will check back tomorrow... 🙂

[LawrenceChard]

3 hours ago, stackerp5 said:

Hi @Hotdog, the Numista website has diameter specification for coins. It appears Elizabeth II sovereigns have a diameter of 22.05mm while George V are 22mm, a negligible difference so probably the thickness changed. I wouldn't be able to tell you for sure as I only have a copper alloy sovereign.

I suspect whoever contributed the George V information used an approximate figure, but don't forget about tolerance.