Numismatic

1908 $2.50 Indian Gold Quarter Eagle MS-64 PCGS

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In 1908, the United States Mint introduced a radical departure from traditional coinage design with the Indian Head quarter eagle. Created by sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt, this coin features an incuse design, meaning the details are recessed below the flat surface of the coin rather than raised above it. This innovative technique gives the coin a distinct, flat profile that was unlike anything else in circulation at the time. The obverse displays a realistic portrait of a Native American man wearing a traditional feathered headdress. Surrounding this central figure are thirteen stars representing the original colonies, the word "LIBERTY", and the 1908 year of issue. Because this coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, it bears no mint mark. On the reverse, a proud bald eagle stands amidst the classic national mottos "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and "IN GOD WE TRUST". The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination of "2 1/2 DOLLARS" encircle the majestic bird. Struck in 0.900 fine gold, this particular specimen is certified in Mint State 64 (MS-64) condition, preserving the sharp details of Pratt's unique sunken-relief artistry.