The 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle is one of the most unique and sought-after coins in U.S. history. Designed by the famous sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin stands out because it was part of an experimental design. It was unlike most other coins produced at the time, especially with its special features, like the wire rim and lack of stars on the edge. This coin is often considered one of the most beautiful and artistic coins made in the United States, and its rarity makes it highly valuable for collectors.
Let’s dive into the details of this coin, including its design, features, and why it’s so unique.
Design and Features
The 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle coin was created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, who was commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt to redesign U.S. coinage in an effort to make it more artistic. Here are some key features that make this coin so special:
- Front (Obverse) Design: The front side of the coin shows a beautiful image of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress. This was an unusual choice, as Lady Liberty had been traditionally depicted in more classical European styles. The Native American headdress gave the design a unique, American look, which was Roosevelt’s intention to represent American pride.
- Back (Reverse) Design: The reverse side features a bald eagle standing proudly with its wings folded. This image of the eagle was powerful and gave a sense of strength and patriotism.
- Wire Rim: The wire rim on the coin adds a thin raised edge around it, which was not typical for coins produced in that period. This rim gives the coin a distinct look and feel, adding to its uniqueness.
- No Stars on the Edge: Most U.S. coins during this era had stars on the edge, representing the states in the union. However, this particular 1907 Indian Head $10 Eagle has a smooth edge with no stars, making it very unusual.
Why Is This Coin Unique?
The 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle is unique for several reasons, but it’s mainly due to the rare design choices made by Saint-Gaudens. Here are some of the reasons why this coin stands out:
- Experimental Design: This coin was part of an experimental series. The wire rim and lack of stars on the edge were design choices that were not continued in later years, making this specific 1907 version incredibly rare.
- Limited Production: Only a small number of these coins were made with the wire rim and smooth edge, as these design elements were quickly changed due to production challenges. Because so few were made, it’s one of the rarest coins from this period.
- High Collector Value: Because of its unique design and limited availability, this coin is highly valued by collectors. A well-preserved 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle can fetch high prices at auctions, sometimes reaching tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Specifications Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1907 |
| Designer | Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
| Denomination | $10 Eagle |
| Metal Composition | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 16.718 grams |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Edge | Smooth, no stars |
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty with Native American headdress |
| Reverse Design | Bald eagle standing |
| Special Features | Wire rim, no stars on edge |
| Rarity | High |
Why Collectors Love It
For collectors, the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle is not just a coin; it’s a piece of art and history. It reflects an era in U.S. history when coin designs were changing, and it shows the influence of Saint-Gaudens, one of the most celebrated artists of the time. The combination of beauty, rarity, and historical significance makes it a must-have for serious coin collectors.
Value and Market Demand
Because of its uniqueness, the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle holds significant value in the collector market. Prices vary based on the coin’s condition, with high-grade, well-preserved coins fetching higher amounts. Auction prices for these coins can range widely but generally fall between tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Conclusion
The 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle is truly a special coin with a rich history. Its unique features, such as the wire rim and lack of stars on the edge, set it apart from other coins of the era. This coin represents a time of innovation in American coin design and reflects the artistic vision of Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Collectors consider this coin a prized possession due to its rarity, beauty, and the stories it holds from a transformative period in U.S. history. Owning a piece like this is like holding a piece of American art and culture in your hands.
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FAQs
Q1: Why does the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle have no stars on the edge?
A1: The lack of stars on the edge was part of an experimental design by Saint-Gaudens. This design was not continued in later versions, making the 1907 version rare.
Q2: What is the wire rim on the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle?
A2: The wire rim is a raised edge around the coin, which adds a unique look. This feature was also part of the experimental design and was discontinued in later editions.
Q3: How much gold is in the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle?
A3: The coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, weighing a total of 16.718 grams.
Q4: Why is the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle so valuable?
A4: Its value comes from its rarity, unique design features (like the wire rim and no stars), and its historical significance. Collectors consider it a valuable piece of American coinage history.
Q5: Who designed the 1907 Indian Head Gold $10 Eagle?
A5: The coin was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a well-known American sculptor who worked on several U.S. coins under President Theodore Roosevelt’s commission.