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Inventory:
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- Product ID: 11540
The US $2.5 Indian Gold Coins minted in 1911 and graded Almost Uncirculated (AU) are esteemed numismatic treasures that embody the rich history and artistic innovation of early 20th-century American coinage. These coins represent a continuation of the iconic quarter eagle series introduced in 1908, featuring the revolutionary Indian Head design by sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt.
Designed to depart from the traditional Liberty Head motif, the $2.5 Indian Gold Coins feature a captivating portrait of a Native American chief in profile on the obverse. This unique design choice was a departure from the classical imagery prevalent on previous US coinage and marked a significant shift towards embracing indigenous American motifs. The obverse also includes the word "LIBERTY" inscribed above the chief's portrait and the date below, adding to the coin's visual appeal and historical significance.
The reverse of the $2.5 Indian Gold Coins showcases a majestic bald eagle standing on a bundle of arrows, symbolizing strength and preparedness, while clutching an olive branch in its talon, symbolizing peace. The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is inscribed above the eagle, with the denomination "2 1/2 DOLLARS" featured below. Pratt's innovative decision to eliminate the raised rim on the reverse gave the coins a modern and distinctive appearance, setting them apart from earlier US coinage designs.
The 1911 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, denoted by the absence of a mint mark. As the primary facility for producing US coinage at the time, the Philadelphia Mint played a vital role in minting gold coins for circulation and commerce. The meticulous production standards of the mint ensured that these coins were struck with precision and attention to detail, resulting in coins of exceptional beauty and quality.
While specific mintage figures for the 1911 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins are not readily available, 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 larger denomination gold coins, making them somewhat scarcer and more desirable among collectors.
The Almost Uncirculated (AU) grade of the 1911 $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 sought-after by collectors.
The $2.5 Indian Gold Coins played a crucial role in the US monetary system during the early 20th century, circulating alongside other gold denominations and facilitating commerce and trade. These coins were valued for their intrinsic gold content and stability, serving as a reliable form of currency in everyday transactions.
Collectors and enthusiasts who acquire the 1911 $2.5 Indian Gold Coins are not only investing in a piece of gold but also in a tangible artifact that represents a significant chapter in American numismatic history. These coins embody the spirit of artistic innovation and cultural heritage that characterized the early 20th-century renaissance of US coinage, making them prized additions to any numismatic collection.