1909 (O) Indian Head Half Eagle

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1909

Denomination

Gold Half Eagle

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Indian Head Half Eagles 1908-1929

Designer

Bela Lyon Pratt

Mintage

34,200

Composition

90% Gold, 10% Copper

Weight

8.36g

Diameter

21.6mm

Edge

Reeded

Value Estimates

$6,822 - $106,471

Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.

Auction Record

$690,000 MS66 01-05-2011 Heritage Auctions

Description

Produced at the New Orleans Mint, the 1909 (O) Indian Head Half Eagle is part of the Indian Head Half Eagles 1908-1929 series. With a mintage of 34,200, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 4 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. Coined at the New Orleans Mint, which served the nation's southern economy from 1838 to 1909 and produced coins prized for their regional character. Estimated market value ranges from $6.8K to $106K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 8.36 grams, 21.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8515.