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Inventory:
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- Product ID: 11538
The US $2.5 Indian Gold Coins minted in 1909 and graded Almost Uncirculated (AU) are esteemed relics of American numismatic history. This particular year marked the continuation of the iconic Indian Head quarter eagle series, which debuted in 1908 as part of President Theodore Roosevelt's initiative to revitalize US coinage aesthetics.
Designed by the esteemed sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt, the $2.5 Indian Gold Coins feature a distinctive and innovative portrayal of a Native American chief in profile on the obverse. This departure from the traditional Liberty Head design was a bold statement, reflecting a shift towards more uniquely American artistic motifs. The obverse also includes the word "LIBERTY" inscribed above the chief's portrait and the date below, contributing to the coin's overall visual appeal.
On the reverse of the $2.5 Indian Gold Coins, Pratt depicted a majestic bald eagle standing on a bundle of arrows, symbolizing strength and preparedness, with an olive branch in its talon, symbolizing peace. The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is inscribed above the eagle, while the denomination "2 1/2 DOLLARS" is featured below. The absence of a raised rim on the reverse was another innovative feature of Pratt's design, giving the coins a modern and distinctive appearance.
The 1909 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, denoted by the absence of a mint mark. The Philadelphia Mint, as the primary facility for producing US coinage at the time, played a crucial role in minting gold coins for circulation and commerce. The high-quality production standards of the Philadelphia Mint ensured that these coins were struck with precision and attention to detail, resulting in coins of exceptional beauty and craftsmanship.
The mintage figures for the 1909 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins are not readily available, but it is known that production numbers were relatively low compared to other years in the series. The $2.5 Indian Gold Coins were not as widely circulated as their larger denomination counterparts, making them somewhat scarcer and more sought-after among collectors.
The Almost Uncirculated (AU) grade of the 1909 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins indicates that these coins exhibit minimal wear and retain much of their original luster and detail. Coins in AU condition may show slight friction on the highest points of the design but otherwise maintain sharp details and attractive surfaces. The AU grade ensures that these coins are well-preserved and highly desirable to collectors.
The $2.5 Indian Gold Coins served as a vital component of the US monetary system during the early 20th century, circulating alongside other gold denominations and facilitating commerce and trade. These coins were used in everyday transactions and were valued for their intrinsic gold content and stability. The introduction of the Indian Head design breathed new life into US coinage and set a new standard for artistic expression on American coins.
Collectors and enthusiasts who acquire the 1909 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins are not only investing in a piece of gold but also in a tangible artifact that represents a pivotal moment in American numismatic history. These coins embody the spirit of innovation and artistic excellence that defined the early 20th-century renaissance of US coinage. The $2.5 Indian Gold Coins are cherished by collectors for their beauty, historical significance, and cultural relevance, making them prized additions to any numismatic collection.