Numismatic

1928 $2.50 Indian Gold Quarter Eagle MS-63 PCGS

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The 1928 United States gold quarter eagle stands out as a remarkable example of early twentieth-century coinage, defined by its highly unusual incuse design. Unlike traditional coins where the details are raised above the surface, the imagery on this two and a half dollar piece is sunken directly into the gold. This innovative technique, created by designer Bela Lyon Pratt, gives the coin a distinct flat profile that protects the intricate details of the artwork from excessive wear. On the obverse, a profile of Liberty is depicted wearing a traditional Native American feather headdress. This central figure is encircled by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, with the word LIBERTY inscribed along the top edge and the year 1928 anchored at the bottom. The reverse features a proud bald eagle perched upon a bundle of arrows and an olive branch. The surrounding inscriptions include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, alongside the traditional mottos E PLURIBUS UNUM and IN GOD WE TRUST. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a purity of 0.900 gold, each coin contains 0.1209 troy ounces of precious metal. Out of a total mintage of 416,000 pieces, this specific specimen has survived in exceptional condition, certified by professional graders at Mint State 63. Its sunken relief and beautifully preserved surfaces offer a captivating look at a bold era of American coin design.