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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 50197
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/20/24 02:22:02 | ||
Gold
 8.38
|
$2,640.12 | $2,653.06 |
The $5 Gold Indian 1909-D Extra Fine coin stands as a remarkable example of American numismatic artistry and innovation. Issued by the Denver Mint, this coin is part of the iconic $5 Gold Indian series, which revolutionized American coinage design in the early 20th century. The series is renowned for its departure from traditional motifs and its embrace of more dynamic and culturally significant imagery.
The obverse of the $5 Gold Indian 1909-D features a striking profile of a Native American chief, adorned with a full headdress of feathers. This bold design was the creation of Bela Lyon Pratt, an esteemed sculptor and student of Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Pratt's design was notable for its incuse relief, where the design is sunken into the surface of the coin rather than raised. This technique was unusual in American coinage and contributed to the coin's distinctive and enduring appeal. Surrounding the portrait are 13 stars representing the original colonies, along with the inscriptions "LIBERTY" and the year "1909."
The reverse of the coin showcases an impressive eagle standing on a bundle of arrows and an olive branch, symbols of war and peace, respectively. This powerful imagery reflects the strength and resilience of the United States. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "IN GOD WE TRUST" encircle the eagle, alongside the denomination "FIVE DOLLARS." The reverse also features the "D" mintmark, indicating that the coin was minted in Denver.
The Denver Mint, established in 1906, played a critical role in the production of gold coinage in the early 20th century. The $5 Gold Indian series, including the 1909-D issue, was part of the Mint's efforts to modernize and elevate American coinage standards. The Denver Mint's location was strategic, serving the Western United States and leveraging the gold supplies from nearby mining operations.
The mintage of the 1909-D $5 Gold Indian coin was relatively modest, contributing to its desirability among collectors today. The total number of coins struck that year remains a point of interest for numismatists, as it impacts the coin's rarity and value. Given the coin's age and the historical context of its production, surviving specimens in Extra Fine condition are particularly prized for their well-preserved details and historical significance.
In Extra Fine condition, the $5 Gold Indian 1909-D coin displays sharp details and minimal wear, particularly on the high points of the design such as the feathers of the headdress and the eagle's feathers. The fields, or flat areas of the coin, retain much of their original luster, and the incuse relief design remains clear and well-defined. This level of preservation enhances the coin's aesthetic appeal and underscores its historical importance.
The $5 Gold Indian 1909-D Extra Fine coin is not only a collector's item but also a piece of American history. Its design reflects a period of artistic experimentation and cultural acknowledgment, as the nation sought to honor the heritage and contributions of its indigenous peoples. The coin's production at the Denver Mint and its modest mintage add layers of historical and regional significance, making it a fascinating study for numismatists and historians alike.
In conclusion, the $5 Gold Indian 1909-D Extra Fine coin encapsulates the artistic and cultural shifts of early 20th-century America. With its innovative design by Bela Lyon Pratt, its production at the Denver Mint, and its relatively low mintage, this coin holds a special place in numismatic collections. It is a testament to the era's craftsmanship, cultural acknowledgment, and the enduring legacy of American coinage.