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The 1913 $2.5 Gold Indian is one of the most iconic coins in the history of U.S. numismatics, particularly prized for its striking design and historical significance. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin was part of the Indian Head series, designed by renowned artist Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It was introduced in 1908 as part of a broader redesign of U.S. gold coinage, and the Indian Head Quarter Eagle, with its unique and bold design, immediately stood out among contemporary coins. The 1913 issue holds a particularly revered place in numismatic history due to its limited mintage and historical context, making it a key date for collectors. The coin's MS61 grade, certified by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), reflects its excellent condition, with minimal wear and strong eye appeal for its age.
Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ design for the Indian Head series was revolutionary for its time. Instead of the classical motifs commonly used on U.S. coins, Saint-Gaudens opted for a more modern and dynamic representation of Liberty. On the obverse of the coin, the figure of Liberty is depicted in full relief, wearing a Native American headdress. This bold design conveyed a sense of strength and dignity, embodying the spirit of the nation in the early 20th century. The obverse also features the word "LIBERTY" above the portrait and 13 stars around the border, representing the original 13 colonies. The reverse of the coin is equally distinctive, showcasing an eagle in flight, clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and readiness for defense. The reverse also features the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM," as well as the denomination "2 1/2 DOLLARS" and the year of issue, "1913." The coin’s design was a departure from the traditional, and it continues to be revered as one of the most beautiful and enduring designs in American coinage.
The 1913 $2.5 Gold Indian was struck in 90% gold, with the remaining 10% made up of copper, which was the standard composition for U.S. gold coins at the time. The coin weighs 4.18 grams and has a diameter of 18 mm. While the Indian Head series was initially met with some public resistance due to the unconventional design, it soon gained popularity, and the Indian Head Quarter Eagle became a symbol of the early 20th century. The 1913 issue stands out due to its relatively low mintage compared to other years in the series. Only 240,000 coins were struck that year, which contributes to the coin's rarity and desirability among collectors today. Its relatively low mintage, along with its iconic design and historical significance, has made the 1913 Indian Head Quarter Eagle one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics.
The minting of the 1913 $2.5 Gold Indian occurred at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary mint for the production of U.S. coins at the time. In 1913, the U.S. Mint was in the midst of a significant transformation, with new designs and coinage types being introduced. The Mint had recently completed the redesign of several important coin denominations, including the Indian Head series, and was also producing large quantities of silver and gold coins for circulation. The design of the Indian Head Quarter Eagle was part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage and make it more symbolic of the nation’s ideals. Though the 1913 issue was not as high in mintage as some other years, it has become a key coin for collectors due to its historical and artistic significance, and it continues to be highly prized in the numismatic market.
Coin collectors often seek out the 1913 $2.5 Gold Indian for its distinctive appearance and its historical value. The coin was part of the Indian Head series, which continued to be minted until 1933, when it was replaced by the modern gold coinage system introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression. The 1913 coin represents a pivotal moment in the history of American coinage, as it marked a period of innovation and artistic achievement at the U.S. Mint. The Indian Head design is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and striking designs in the history of U.S. coinage, and the 1913 issue is particularly significant for its rarity and condition.
The certified grade of MS61 by NGC indicates that this coin is in excellent condition for its age. Coins in the MS61 grade are typically well-preserved, with only minor imperfections visible under magnification. For a coin that is over 100 years old, the MS61 grade is a testament to its exceptional preservation. The coin’s surfaces are free from major scratches or abrasions, and the intricate details of the design remain sharp and clear. The coin retains much of its original luster, though some toning and wear may be present, especially on the highest points of the design. The gold content of the coin has helped it retain much of its appeal, as gold coins are more durable than their silver counterparts and tend to hold up better over time. The 1913 $2.5 Gold Indian is an excellent example of American coinage from the early 20th century and is highly prized by collectors for its beauty and historical significance.
The 1913 $2.5 Gold Indian is considered a key date in the series, and its rarity, coupled with the coin’s iconic design, makes it a highly desirable addition to any collection. The coin is particularly sought after by collectors of U.S. gold coins, and its historical importance ensures that it will remain a key piece in the numismatic world for years to come. The 1913 Indian Head Quarter Eagle is a coin that not only showcases the artistic and technical achievement of the U.S. Mint during the early 20th century but also embodies the spirit of the nation during a period of great change and progress. For collectors, it represents an opportunity to own a piece of American history and a work of art that will continue to inspire and captivate for generations to come.