Numismatic

1916-S $5 Indian Gold Half Eagle AU

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The 1916 gold half eagle represents a fascinating departure from traditional coinage methods. Struck at the San Francisco Mint with a total production of 240,000 pieces, this five dollar coin is composed of 0.900 fine gold, containing 0.2419 troy ounces of the precious metal. What truly sets this issue apart is its innovative incuse design, where the details are sunken below the flat surface of the coin rather than raised above it. On the obverse, the sunken relief depicts a Native American figure wearing a traditional feathered headdress. This portrait is encircled by thirteen stars, with the word 'LIBERTY' positioned along the top edge and the 1916 date of manufacture below. The designer's initials, B.L.P., are also visible on this side. The reverse displays a proud bald eagle standing amidst several classic inscriptions. Surrounding the central bird are the phrases 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the face value, 'FIVE DOLLARS'. Those examples struck in San Francisco are distinguished by the 'S' mint mark, adding an extra layer of detail for observers to identify on this beautifully preserved, Almost Uncirculated specimen.