$2.50 Indian Head Quarter Eagle Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic American coinage alloy)
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper); Fineness .900
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper); Fineness .900
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic American coinage alloy)
Weight
4.18 grams (0.12094 troy oz of pure gold content per coin)
Description
A pair of iconic $2.50 Indian Head Quarter Eagles featuring the revolutionary incuse design where the motifs are sunken below the flat surface of the coin. The reverse displays a majestic American Eagle perched on a bundle of arrows and an olive branch.
Key Features
Incuse design (only US coin series alongside the $5 Half Eagle to feature this), Pratt's signature eagle, and lack of a raised rim
Color & Finish
Deep, rich orange-yellow; original luster with satin-finish incuse surfaces and minor bag marks
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks (standard for US coinage); 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and '2 1/2 DOLLARS' inscribed
Dimensions Estimate
18.0 mm diameter; 1.1 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features incuse (sunken) relief design
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge; standard vertical serrations for security
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid minted planchet
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional strike quality; the incuse process required higher striking pressure than traditional raised-relief coins.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of incuse lettering, consistency of the matte field, reed count on edges, and lack of typical 'casting bubbles' found in counterfeits
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Era & Period
Progressive Era (1908-1929); designed by Bela Lyon Pratt
Age Estimate
Circa 1908–1929
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age of American Coinage' initiated by Theodore Roosevelt to improve the aesthetic quality of US currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good to About Uncirculated; visible surface scratches and minor rim dings; luster remains present in protected areas
Value Estimate
Current market value ranges from $450 to $650+ per coin depending on gold spot price and numismatic grade
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in PVC-free flips or airtight capsules to prevent scratching.
Similar Items
Indian Head $5 Half Eagle (larger version), Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle, Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
Interesting Facts
The incuse design was criticized upon release because people feared the sunken areas would collect germs and spread disease.