$2.50 Quarter-Eagle, Indian Head Type

The $2.50 Indian Head Quarter Eagle is one of the most distinctive and innovative coins in U.S. Mint history. Issued from 1908 to 1929, it was designed by sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt as part of President Theodore Roosevelt’s campaign to redesign American coinage into true works of art. The coin is notable for its unique incuse design—where the images are sunken into the coin’s surface rather than raised—making it the only U.S. coin (alongside its $5 counterpart) to feature this style. Compact, artistically bold, and historically rich, the Indian Head Quarter Eagle has become a favorite among collectors of classic American gold.

Key Features:

• Purity: Composed of 90% gold (21.6 karats) and 10% copper, each $2.50 Indian Head Quarter Eagle contains 0.1209 troy ounces of pure gold. The copper alloy increases hardness, helping to preserve the coin’s recessed detail despite circulation.

• Design: The obverse features a left-facing portrait of a Native American chief wearing a full feathered war bonnet, with “LIBERTY” inscribed above and 13 stars surrounding the design. The reverse depicts a stoic bald eagle standing on a bundle of arrows with an olive branch, flanked by the mottos “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Both sides are rendered in incuse relief, giving the coin a uniquely flat, yet sharply defined appearance.

• Denomination: With a face value of $2.50, the Quarter Eagle played a practical role in everyday transactions in the early 20th century. Though small in size, it represented significant purchasing power during its era and was popular in banking and as a gift coin.

• Legal Tender: Issued by the United States Mint and authorized as legal tender, the $2.50 Indian Head Quarter Eagle circulated widely until gold was withdrawn from commerce in 1933. While no longer used in trade, it retains legal tender status and is recognized as an official U.S. gold coin.

• Collectability: The Indian Head Quarter Eagle is highly sought after for its artistic innovation, unique incuse design, and limited mintage span. Though most dates are relatively accessible, a few—like the 1911-D—are scarce and command strong premiums in higher grades. The series appeals to collectors for both its aesthetic and historical significance, and its modest gold content makes it an attractive entry point into pre-1933 U.S. gold coinage. Coins in well-preserved condition are particularly prized due to the design's susceptibility to wear.

Small in size but bold in design, the $2.50 Indian Head Quarter Eagle stands apart as one of the most original and collectible coins in the history of American gold coinage.