$2.50 Indian Gold Quarter Eagle

The $2.50 Indian Gold Quarter Eagle is one of the most distinct designs in U.S. coinage history. Minted from 1908 to 1929, it features an incuse (sunken) design—where the devices are pressed into the surface rather than raised—resulting in a unique texture and bold profile. Designed by Bela Lyon Pratt, this piece stands apart from all other pre-1933 gold coins and remains a favorite among collectors for its artistic and historical significance.

Highlights

• Contains .1209 troy oz of gold (.900 fine)
• Coins in this listing have been cleaned or may have been mounted in jewelry
• Obverse: Liberty wearing a full Native American headdress, encircled by 13 stars with "Liberty" above and the date below
• Reverse: Majestic bald eagle with inscriptions "United States of America," "E Pluribus Unum," "In God We Trust," and the denomination "2½ Dollars"
• Minted at Philadelphia or Denver
• Designed by Bela Lyon Pratt
• Dates and mintmarks selected at random based on current inventory

Why Choose This Coin?

This cleaned or ex-jewelry example offers a cost-effective way to own a truly iconic U.S. gold coin with historical depth and artistic uniqueness. While it may not meet numismatic grading standards, it still contains authentic gold content, a recognizable design, and the prestige of pre-1933 U.S. Mint production. Whether you're filling a collection or diversifying your holdings with vintage gold, the Indian Quarter Eagle offers strong appeal at an accessible price point.

Historical Significance

The Indian Quarter Eagle marked a major departure in U.S. coin design. Introduced during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt—who sought to elevate American coinage to an art form—this was one of only two U.S. coins ever issued with an incuse design (the other being the $5 Indian Half Eagle). Though initially controversial due to concerns over wear and hygiene, the design eventually gained acceptance and has since become a beloved series among collectors. Many of these coins were later melted down, making them increasingly difficult to find, particularly in collectible conditions.