1909 Proof Indian Head Half Eagle

Coin Details

Auction Record

$168,000 PR68 06-17-2018 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1909 Proof Indian Head Half Eagle is a proof Gold Half Eagle struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Indian Head Half Eagles 1908-1929 series. With a mintage of 78, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 5 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features a Native American chief wearing a feathered headdress, designed in incuse (sunken) relief — a revolutionary departure from traditional raised relief coinage and the reverse displays a standing eagle on a bundle of arrows with an olive branch, in incuse (sunken) relief. The 1909-O (mintage 34,200) is the series key date and the only New Orleans Mint incuse coin. Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco also struck coins. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $23K. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 8.36 grams, 21.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8540.