The $2.5 Indian Head gold coin, or quarter eagle, is a favorite among numismatists and collectors today. The quest to form a complete collection of these coins is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. The unique design and historical context make the $2.5 Indian Head gold coin a sought-after piece in the numismatic world.
The Indian Head series had a relatively short lifespan, with the U.S. Mint striking the quarter eagle gold coin from 1908 through 1915 and then from 1925 to 1929. President Theodore Roosevelt had initially commissioned Augustus Saint-Gaudens to beautify several denominations of American coinage. However, his intricate design for the $10 Indian Head gold coin proved difficult to adapt to smaller denominations. Due to Saint-Gaudens' untimely death in 1907, his student Bela Lyon Pratt took over the redesign of the quarter and half eagle gold coins. Inspired by Saint-Gaudens' artistic vision, Pratt designed the $2.5 and $5 gold coins with unique incuse designs, where the images are pressed into the coin's surface rather than raised.
These gold quarter eagle coins are highly valued today, particularly those in exceptional condition. The recall and melting of gold coins in 1933 under Executive Order 6102 notably reduced the number of surviving pre-1933 gold coins. Despite the ban on private gold ownership until 1974, some individuals managed to retain their quarter eagle gold coins, contributing to the limited availability of these coins today.
The obverse of the $2.5 Indian Head gold coin features an Indigenous American male wearing a feathered war bonnet, gazing to the left. The reverse depicts a bald eagle standing on a bundle of arrows with an olive branch. Production of these coins halted from 1916 to 1925 due to WWI-related economic hardships. The U.S. Mint resumed production in 1925, continuing until 1929. Around 532,000 Indian Head $2.5 gold coins were minted in 1929, yet PCGS estimates that only 66,166 have survived to the present day, mainly because of the impact of Executive Order 6102.
Coin images sourced from: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
The $2.5 Indian Head gold coin saw few changes throughout its production. Mint marks varied, with Denver coins bearing a "D" mint mark and Philadelphia coins typically having no mint mark. The coin's incuse design was a notable innovation, marking the first time a circulating U.S. gold coin featured such a design. The quarter eagle coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a diameter of 18.00 mm and a weight of 4.18 grams.
The 1911-D Indian Head Quarter Eagle is especially rare, with only 55,680 pieces minted, and is considered the key date release of the series. The value of a $2.5 Indian Head gold coin varies based on mint mark, year, finish, mintage, and condition. Resulting from their low surviving mintage, these coins command higher prices in the numismatic market. Coins certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), especially those with high grades, can yield even higher premiums.
Before sending your coin for certification, assess its surface for wear and tear. Coins in better condition generally have higher value. Certified coins from professional grading companies can considerably increase the coin’s market value. If you come across a $2.5 Indian Head gold coin, consult a professional numismatist to ensure you receive the highest possible quote.
The $2.5 Indian Head gold coin stands as a testament to a unique and innovative period in the production of gold coinage by the U.S. Mint. Its rare design, historical significance, and limited availability make it a coveted piece for any numismatic collection. At Bullion Hunters, we provide expert guidance and an extensive selection of collectible coins, including the $2.5 Indian Head gold coin. Explore our website or contact us to discover how these remarkable coins can augment your collection.