$2.50 Indian Quarter Eagle

The Indian Quarter Eagle, a $2.50 gold coin, was minted from 1908 to 1929 and features a unique incuse design by sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt. This coin stands out due to its innovative design with the images and inscriptions sunken into the surface, rather than raised as is typical for most coins. The Indian Quarter Eagle is popular among collectors for its distinctive appearance and historical significance.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features a Native American chief wearing a full feathered headdress, with the word 'LIBERTY' inscribed above and the date below. Thirteen stars surround the portrait, representing the original thirteen colonies.
• Reverse (back): Displays a majestic bald eagle perched on a bundle of arrows, with an olive branch in its talons. The inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,' 'E PLURIBUS UNUM,' and '2 1/2 DOLLARS' are also present.
• Weight: 4.18 grams
• Gold Content: 0.12094 troy ounces of pure gold
• Fineness: 90% gold (0.900 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The Indian Quarter Eagle was produced at two U.S. Mints, and the mint mark is found on the reverse, to the left of the arrows:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): The primary mint for the Indian Quarter Eagle, producing the majority of these coins.
• Denver ('D'): Coins from the Denver Mint are identifiable by their 'D' mint mark and are generally more scarce than those from Philadelphia.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Many Indian Quarter Eagles from the Philadelphia Mint, particularly those minted in years with higher production numbers, are more accessible to collectors. These include the 1911 and 1925 issues, which are often available at more affordable prices.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Some years and mint marks are notably rarer and more valuable. The 1911-D, for instance, is a key date due to its low mintage and is highly sought after by collectors. Additionally, the 1914-D is another scarce and desirable issue.

Various Grades and Values

The value of Indian Quarter Eagles varies based on their condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins (primarily Philadelphia issues):

• Good (G): $300-400
• Fine (F): $350-450
• Extremely Fine (XF): $400-600
• About Uncirculated (AU): $600-900
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $900-1,200

Rare mint marks and key dates, like the 1911-D, can command prices significantly higher, often reaching several thousand dollars depending on the condition.

The Indian Quarter Eagle is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history, cherished for its unique design and historical context. While common-date coins from the Philadelphia Mint provide an accessible entry point for collectors, rare dates such as the 1911-D are highly prized and can command substantial premiums. The coin's value is greatly influenced by its condition and the rarity of its mint mark.

$2.50 Indian Quarter Eagle Auctions