Numismatic

1914-D $5 Indian Gold Half Eagle AU

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The 1914 gold half eagle represents a fascinating departure from traditional coin minting methods. Struck at the Denver Mint, this five dollar denomination features an incuse design, meaning the details are sunken below the flat surface of the coin rather than raised above it. This unusual technique gives the piece a distinct, flat profile and protects the intricate details of the artwork from excessive wear. On the obverse, a Native American wearing a traditional feathered headdress is depicted in profile. This central figure is encircled by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, with the word Liberty placed along the upper rim and the 1914 date positioned at the bottom. The initials of the designer, Bela Lyon Pratt, are also subtly integrated into the design. The reverse showcases a proud bald eagle perched on a bundle of arrows, clutching an olive branch. The surrounding inscriptions include United States of America, the denomination Five Dollars, and the traditional mottos E Pluribus Unum and In God We Trust. A small D mint mark is visible, indicating its origin at the Denver facility. With a total mintage of 247,000 pieces, this coin contains 0.2419 troy ounces of pure gold and is preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition.