Indian Head $10 Gold Eagle Coin (Reverse: Standing Eagle)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange tint due to historical copper alloying standards of the U.S. Mint
Purity: 21.6K / 90% Gold (0.900 Fineness) and 10% Copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K / 90% Gold (0.900 Fineness) and 10% Copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange tint due to historical copper alloying standards of the U.S. Mint
Weight
16.718 grams (0.48375 troy oz of pure gold content)
Description
An iconic example of American numismatic art, this $10 Gold Eagle features a majestic standing eagle on a bundle of arrows and olive branch. Designed by legendary sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, it represents the 'Golden Age' of American coinage.
Key Features
Standing bald eagle on the reverse, high-relief design, reeded edge with stars, and the distinct 'Ten Dollars' denomination at the bottom
Color & Finish
Deep, rich orange-yellow; satin-lustre finish with visible surface abrasions and contact marks consistent with circulation
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks (standard for coins); includes inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and 'TEN DOLLARS'
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 27 mm and thickness of 2.03 mm (Standard U.S. Mint specifications for $10 Gold Eagle)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features high-relief historical numismatic engravings
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features a reeded (milled) edge for security and to prevent metal shaving
Chain & Links
Not applicable; edge is reeded with 46 raised stars (if minted after 1907) or 13 stars depending on the specific year variety
Craftsmanship Details
Struck with high-pressure dies. The design shows exceptional detail in the eagle's plumage and the feathered legs, characteristic of Saint-Gaudens' sculptural style
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth, proper font spacing for the era, consistent color for 90% gold. Note: Surface appears somewhat 'brassier' in the photo, suggesting a need for a weight/Schmid test to rule out replicas
Origin & Maker
United States Mint; specifically Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco depending on the mint mark (not visible here)
Era & Period
Early 20th Century (1907-1933); specifically the Augustus Saint-Gaudens era of American coinage
Age Estimate
Produced between 1907 and 1933; likely mid-period given the presence of 'In God We Trust'
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the American effort to create coins of high artistic merit; symbol of early 20th-century U.S. economic expansion
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated (AU) to Extremely Fine (XF). Shows numerous bag marks and surface scratches consistent with loose storage or light handling; no major dents or rim dings visible
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by gold spot price + 10-25% numismatic premium. Approximately $1,100-$1,400 depending on current market spot and specific date/mint
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value. Store in an airtight non-PVC plastic holder or a professional grading slab
Similar Items
Liberty Head $10 Gold Eagle (pre-1907), Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle, or modern 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle bullion coins
Interesting Facts
President Theodore Roosevelt hated the 'In God We Trust' motto on coins, so early 1907-1908 versions omitted it until Congress mandated its return