Numismatic

1908-D $10 Indian Gold Eagle No Motto MS-61 NGC

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In 1908, the Denver Mint produced a distinctive version of the ten-dollar gold piece, notable for what it does not say. This particular issue belongs to the early run of the Indian Head design that lacks the motto "In God We Trust" on the reverse. Collectors and historians often refer to these specific issues as the No Motto variety, representing a brief and fascinating window in the history of United States coinage. The obverse of this gold coin features a powerful profile of Liberty wearing a Native American feathered headdress, with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed upon the band. Encircling this central figure are thirteen stars, representing the original colonies. The reverse showcases a proud eagle standing on a bundle of arrows, clutching an olive branch. The legend "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is clearly visible, maintaining a classic national sentiment. Struck from 0.4838 troy ounces of gold with a purity of 0.900, this coin is a testament to the craftsmanship of the Denver Mint, indicated by the "D" mint mark. With a total mintage of 210,000 pieces, finding an example certified in Mint State 61 (MS-61) offers a wonderful glimpse into early twentieth-century American numismatics.