Numismatic

1926 $2.50 Indian Gold Quarter Eagle AU

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The 1926 gold quarter eagle stands out in American numismatic history due to its highly unusual incuse design. Unlike traditional coinage where the imagery rises above the surface, the details on this two and a half dollar piece are sunken into the flat metal plane. This innovative technique, crafted by Bela Lyon Pratt, gives the coin a distinct tactile feel and a striking visual depth that set it apart from other issues of its era. On the obverse, a left-facing profile of Liberty wearing a traditional feathered headdress is encircled by thirteen stars. The word LIBERTY is inscribed along the top edge, with the 1926 date positioned directly beneath the portrait. This native-themed depiction represented a bold departure from classical allegorical figures of the time. The reverse displays a majestic bald eagle standing proudly on a bundle of arrows wrapped in an olive branch. Surrounding this central figure are the required national inscriptions, including UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and IN GOD WE TRUST, along with the denomination of 2 1/2 DOLLARS. Struck in 0.900 fine gold with a precious metal content of 0.12094 troy ounces, this Almost Uncirculated specimen showcases the Philadelphia Mint's contribution to a series produced from 1908 to 1929.