Numismatic

1914-S $5 Indian Gold Half Eagle XF

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The 1914 half eagle struck at the San Francisco mint represents a fascinating departure from traditional coinage methods. Utilizing an incuse, or sunken relief, design technique, the coin features its artwork pressed below the flat surface rather than raised above it. This unusual approach gives the coin a distinct tactile quality and a profile unlike most other American currency. Crafted from 0.900 fine gold, this five dollar piece contains 0.2419 troy ounces of precious metal. On the obverse, a Native American wearing a detailed, feathered ceremonial headdress faces left. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, accompanied by the word Liberty and the 1914 year of issue. The initials B.L.P. are also visible, identifying the artist Bela Lyon Pratt. This side of the coin showcases the deep, recessed engraving that defines the series. The reverse depicts a proud bald eagle standing on a bundle of arrows, clutching an olive branch. The inscriptions United States of America and Five Dollars frame the central image, while the traditional mottos E Pluribus Unum and In God We Trust are placed in the open fields. The S mint mark, indicating its origin at the San Francisco mint, is located just to the left of the bundle of arrows. With a total mintage of only 263,000 pieces, this specific issue is a compelling example of early twentieth century minting artistry.