2.50 US dollars Indian Gold Quarter Eagle (1908-1929) At 3.76 gr

Indian Head $2.50 Gold Quarter Eagle (1908–1929)

A Bold Vision in American Gold Coinage

The Indian Head $2.50 Gold Quarter Eagle represents a daring departure from traditional U.S. coin design. Minted from 1908 to 1929, this small but historically significant gold piece was created by renowned sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt as part of President Theodore Roosevelt's initiative to elevate American coinage to the level of fine art. Unlike most U.S. coins, the design elements are impressed below the surface of the field—a distinctive incuse technique that sets this series apart from all others in American numismatic history.

Design & Distinction

Unique Incuse Relief: In a radical break from convention, Pratt placed the design elements below the coin's surface rather than raised above it. This innovative approach not only created a striking visual effect but also helped protect the design from wear during circulation.

Obverse: Features a powerful, masculine depiction of Liberty wearing a full Native American war bonnet. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, symbolizing the original colonies, with the word "LIBERTY" above and the date below.

Reverse: Showcases a majestic bald eagle standing atop a bundle of arrows and an olive branch—symbols of strength and peace. The reverse bears the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the denomination "2 ½ DOLLARS."

Key Specifications
Feature Detail
Metal Gold
Purity 90% gold, 10% copper
Gold Content 0.1209 troy oz
Weight 4.18 g
Diameter 18 mm
Designer Bela Lyon Pratt
Years of Issue 1908–1929
Mint Marks Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D)