Indian Head Gold Eagle Values
How Much Indian Head Gold Eagles are Worth: Indian Head Gold 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1907 | (None) Phil | Indian | -- | $1,565 | $1,585 | $1,670 | $1,508 | $1,934 | $1,742 | $2,703 | $4,695 | $9,600 | $16,995 |
| 1907 | (None) Phil | Rolled Edge Satin Finish 1 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 1908 | (None) Phil | No Motto | -- | $1,565 | $1,585 | $1,670 | $1,577 | $1,720 | $2,315 | $5,515 | $8,875 | $17,500 | $39,300 |
| 1908 | D | No Motto | -- | -- | -- | $1,670 | $2,010 | $1,720 | $2,618 | $7,050 | $15,300 | $60,900 | $92,750 |
| 1908 | (None) Phil | Motto | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,935 | $1,800 | $2,381 | $4,525 | $9,045 | $14,850 |
| 1908 | (None) Phil | 50-65 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,975 | $41,500 | $71,400 | $96,800 | $137,750 |
| 1909 | D | Motto | -- | -- | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,685 | $1,942 | $6,669 | $11,280 | $36,400 | $54,500 |
| 1909 | S | -- | -- | -- | $1,625 | $1,779 | $1,852 | $1,687 | $5,310 | $11,985 | $16,400 | $31,550 | $53,400 |
| 1909 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | -- | -- | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,591 | $1,961 | $3,070 | $6,513 | $14,030 | $28,500 |
| 1909 | D | -- | -- | -- | -- | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,672 | $1,952 | $4,950 | $11,590 | $30,150 | $59,500 |
| 1909 | (None) Phil | 50-65 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,975 | $41,500 | $71,400 | $96,800 | $187,750 |
| 1910 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,514 | $1,772 | $2,041 | $2,652 | $8,660 | $20,350 |
| 1910 | D | -- | -- | -- | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,533 | $1,835 | $1,772 | $2,224 | $2,409 | $8,138 | $19,550 |
| 1910 | S | -- | -- | $1,849 | $1,988 | $2,100 | $2,451 | $3,208 | $7,330 | $19,430 | $99,995 | $272,500 | -- |
| 1910 | (None) Phil | 60-75 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,975 | $41,500 | $71,400 | $96,800 | $157,750 |
| 1911 | S | -- | -- | -- | $790 | $837 | $848 | $841 | $1,513 | $5,490 | $11,338 | $58,900 | $111,250 |
| 1911 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | -- | -- | $1,675 | $1,869 | $2,027 | $4,690 | $15,900 | $17,700 | $28,350 | $47,850 |
| 1911 | D | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,845 | $1,772 | $2,341 | $3,795 | $9,840 | $30,850 |
| 1912 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,845 | $1,783 | $1,983 | $3,265 | $10,100 | $17,650 |
| 1912 | S | -- | -- | -- | -- | $1,728 | $1,919 | $2,304 | $4,965 | $21,800 | $43,875 | $186,750 | $363,750 |
| 1912 | (None) Phil | 40-55 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,975 | $41,500 | $71,400 | $96,800 | $137,750 |
| 1913 | (None) Phil | 40-50 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,700 | $40,400 | $69,200 | $93,500 | $132,250 |
| 1914 | S | -- | -- | -- | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,672 | $1,743 | $2,244 | $6,555 | $12,618 | $38,450 | $213,000 |
| 1914 | (None) Phil | 40-45 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,975 | $41,500 | $71,400 | $124,300 | $165,250 |
| 1914 | D | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,502 | $1,972 | $2,600 | $4,605 | $13,035 | $33,050 |
| 1914 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,835 | $1,786 | $2,369 | $5,380 | $9,788 | $24,150 |
| 1915 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,845 | $1,772 | $2,795 | $4,939 | $11,213 | $26,025 |
| 1915 | S | -- | -- | -- | -- | $1,810 | $2,185 | $2,781 | $7,330 | $17,680 | $27,100 | $96,250 | $193,750 |
| 1915 | (None) Phil | 35-45 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $17,975 | $42,600 | $75,000 | $124,500 | $160,500 |
| 1916 | S | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,733 | $2,577 | $6,263 | $10,580 | $29,600 | $59,200 |
| 1920 | S | -- | -- | -- | -- | $30,250 | $42,300 | $48,800 | $96,500 | $161,750 | $247,500 | $423,000 | $616,250 |
| 1926 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,659 | $1,672 | $1,772 | $1,456 | $2,889 | $3,507 | $11,838 |
| 1930 | S | -- | -- | -- | $22,000 | $23,100 | $26,400 | $31,900 | $53,100 | $75,650 | $89,600 | $112,850 | $263,000 |
| 1932 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $1,510 | $1,515 | $1,638 | $1,653 | $1,835 | $1,772 | $1,510 | $1,895 | $3,507 | $10,820 |
| 1933 | (None) Phil | 30-40 Known | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $148,500 | $192,500 | $332,000 | $485,500 | $750,000 | $1,315,000 |
Indian Head Gold Eagle: A Bold Evolution in U.S. Coinage
The Indian Head Gold Eagle, minted from 1907 to 1933, represents one of the most revolutionary designs in U.S. numismatic history. Conceived by the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin was a centerpiece of President Theodore Roosevelt’s initiative to elevate American coinage to the level of fine art. Combining historical significance, artistic beauty, and intrinsic gold value, the series remains a favorite among collectors and investors.
A Distinctive and Symbolic Design
The obverse of the Indian Head Gold Eagle features Lady Liberty wearing a Native American war bonnet, a striking departure from earlier classical depictions. The headdress, inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” was Saint-Gaudens’ artistic interpretation rather than portraying an actual Indigenous figure. The design was groundbreaking, merging classical and Native American imagery in an unprecedented way.
On the reverse, a powerful standing eagle is perched on a bundle of arrows, complemented by an olive branch, symbolizing military preparedness and peace. This design resembles the reverse Saint-Gaudens initially created for the $20 Double Eagle, reinforcing Roosevelt’s vision of artistic excellence in U.S. coinage.
Challenges in Collecting the Indian Head Gold Eagle
Due to its age and circulation history, many surviving Indian Head Gold Eagles exhibit significant wear or surface marks. Collectors often seek specimens with well-defined details, particularly in Liberty’s headdress and the eagle’s feathers. Coins that retain sharp features and original luster command the highest premiums.
Where to Find These Coins
Indian Head Gold Eagles are frequently available through numismatic auctions, estate collections, and major coin dealers. While circulated examples are common, high-grade, uncirculated specimens are considerably scarcer.
Key Features to Look For:
- Crisp details in Liberty’s headdress, with full feather definition.
- Minimal surface marks, particularly on the high points of the design.
- Strong relief in the eagle’s wings and arrows.
Scarce Dates and Highly Sought-After Issues
Certain years and mintmarks in the Indian Head Gold Eagle series are particularly desirable:
- 1907 Wire Rim & Rolled Rim (High Relief) – The first-year issue of the series, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, featuring an exquisite high-relief design. The Wire Rim variety is scarcer, while the Rolled Rim was an attempted improvement but remains rare in its own right.
- 1911-D – The rarest regular-issue Indian Head Gold Eagle, struck at the Denver Mint with a mintage of just 30,100 coins. Many examples have a weakly struck mintmark, making well-defined specimens especially valuable.
- 1913-S – A tough San Francisco Mint date with only 66,000 struck. Survivorship is low, and finding one in high grade is a major challenge for collectors.
- 1920-S – With a mintage of 126,500, this issue is exceptionally rare in uncirculated condition due to extensive melting and circulation. A significant challenge for advanced collectors.
- 1933 – A legendary rarity, as nearly all were melted following the Gold Recall Act. Only a few specimens are known to exist today, making it one of the most elusive and historically significant gold coins in U.S. numismatics.
Varieties and Collectible Errors
- Weak D Mintmark (1911-D) – Some specimens from the Denver Mint have a faint or nearly invisible “D” mintmark, making them especially valuable.
- Overdates and die variations – Certain issues display minor die differences that add to their numismatic intrigue.
Gold Confiscation and the Coin’s Role in U.S. History
The Indian Head Gold Eagle was among the last circulating U.S. gold coins before the Gold Reserve Act of 1934, which prohibited private ownership of most gold coins and required their surrender to the government. This led to the melting of countless examples, making surviving specimens even more desirable today.
Why These Coins Remain Highly Collectible
- Their unique design sets them apart from all other U.S. gold coins.
- Many were melted in the 1930s, increasing their rarity.
- They symbolize a turning point in American numismatic artistry, thanks to Roosevelt’s vision.
Why Buy Indian Head Gold Eagles?
The Indian Head Gold Eagle remains one of the most visually distinctive and historically significant U.S. gold coins ever minted. With its rich artistic heritage, strong collector demand, and historical importance, it continues to be a prized addition to numismatic and investment portfolios. Whether sought after for its beauty, rarity, or gold content, this coin is a testament to a transformative era in American coinage.
