Indian Head Quarter Eagle Values
How Much Indian Head Quarter Eagles are Worth: Indian Head Quarter Eagle Values & Coin Price Chart
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1908 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $523 | $456 | $640 | $1,660 | $2,420 | $5,350 | $11,325 |
| 1909 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $456 | $612 | $670 | $2,315 | $3,628 | $5,839 | $18,200 |
| 1910 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $457 | $632 | $627 | $1,668 | $2,295 | $6,000 | $29,900 |
| 1911 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $450 | $602 | $617 | $1,425 | $2,163 | $7,779 | $46,500 |
| 1911 | D | Strong D | -- | $1,750 | $2,250 | $2,613 | $3,395 | $4,120 | $7,675 | $15,020 | $20,990 | $72,750 | $244,250 |
| 1911 | D | Weak D | -- | $1,000 | $1,200 | $1,500 | $1,720 | $1,903 | $2,585 | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 1912 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $523 | $454 | $642 | $1,941 | $4,605 | $10,040 | $28,725 |
| 1913 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $523 | $451 | $602 | $1,450 | $2,338 | $8,258 | $28,650 |
| 1914 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $474 | $632 | $749 | $2,870 | $5,450 | $19,995 | $85,995 |
| 1914 | D | -- | -- | -- | $504 | $511 | $592 | $441 | $667 | $2,589 | $4,080 | $20,750 | $33,000 |
| 1915 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $602 | $463 | $638 | $1,089 | $2,088 | $7,165 | $24,000 |
| 1925 | D | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $456 | $632 | $602 | $616 | $819 | $1,681 | $10,995 |
| 1926 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $592 | $612 | $602 | $600 | $890 | $1,614 | $10,995 |
| 1927 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $442 | $602 | $602 | $733 | $833 | $1,565 | $16,180 |
| 1928 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $592 | $612 | $602 | $589 | $890 | $1,763 | $19,075 |
| 1929 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $480 | $504 | $511 | $523 | $496 | $602 | $733 | $890 | $5,805 | $36,650 |
Indian Head Quarter Eagle: A Unique Design in U.S. Coinage
The Indian Head Quarter Eagle, minted from 1908 to 1929, stands out as one of the most distinctive gold coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint. Designed by Bela Lyon Pratt, this coin broke away from traditional designs by featuring an incuse (sunken) relief, a technique rarely seen in American coinage. This bold innovation and its connection to President Theodore Roosevelt’s coinage reform make the Indian Head Quarter Eagle a fascinating piece of numismatic history.
A Bold New Approach
In the early 20th century, President Theodore Roosevelt led a campaign to improve the artistic quality of U.S. coins. Rather than the raised-relief profiles seen on most coins, the Indian Head Quarter Eagle introduced a recessed design, meaning the details were carved into the surface rather than raised above it. This made the coin less susceptible to wear over time, though it also received criticism at the time for its unconventional look.
The obverse features a Native American chief in full headdress, a stark departure from the classical depictions of Liberty seen on previous gold coins. The reverse showcases a standing eagle, clutching arrows and an olive branch, mirroring the design used on the larger Indian Head Half Eagle ($5 coin).
Why Collectors Value the Indian Head Quarter Eagle
Beyond its artistic innovation, the Indian Head Quarter Eagle holds collector appeal due to its relatively low mintage, unique incuse design, and historical significance. It was one of the last quarter eagles struck for circulation, with production ceasing in 1929 as the Great Depression led to decreased demand for gold coinage.
Information for Collectors
- Where to Find Them: Indian Head Quarter Eagles are most commonly available through coin auctions, estate collections, and high-end dealers.
- Key Features: Well-preserved coins should have sharp feather details in the headdress and minimal wear on the eagle’s wings.
- Storage Tips: Due to the incuse design, these coins should be stored in protective holders to prevent surface marks from stacking or friction.
Key Dates and Scarce Varieties
Certain dates in the Indian Head Quarter Eagle series are particularly rare and valuable. Here are a few:
- 1911-D Indian Head Quarter Eagle – Features the lowest mintage of the series (55,600 coins) and is one of the most sought-after key dates.
- 1929 Indian Head Quarter Eagle – The final issue of the series, produced in limited numbers before gold coins were discontinued for circulation.
- Notable Errors: Look for weak mintmarks and doubled dies, which add extra intrigue and collectibility.
Investment Potential
The Indian Head Quarter Eagle remains a solid investment due to its 90% gold content, artistic significance, and collector demand. Key dates, especially in higher grades, consistently command strong premiums, making this coin a great addition to numismatic and investment portfolios.
A Coin Ahead of Its Time
Despite initial skepticism, the Indian Head Quarter Eagle is now recognized as one of the most innovative and visually striking U.S. gold coins. Its incuse relief, historical importance, and connection to Roosevelt’s vision for American coinage make it an essential piece for collectors who appreciate artistry and rarity.
