1909-O $5 Indian CACG AU55

The 1909-O $5 Indian Half Eagle holds a unique place in American numismatics as the only Indian Head Half Eagle ever struck at the New Orleans Mint. This one-year type is a rarity in every grade, with its historical significance and scarcity making it a cornerstone for advanced U.S. gold collections. This example is certified AU55 by CACG, a respected third-party grading service, confirming its quality and originality.

Designed by the acclaimed sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt, the Indian Head Half Eagle introduced a bold incuse design in 1908, with the devices recessed below the surface rather than raised. The obverse features a striking portrait of Liberty wearing a Native American war bonnet, encircled by 13 stars with the date positioned below. The reverse depicts a proud bald eagle perched on a bundle of arrows with an olive branch, symbolizing both readiness and peace. Pratt’s design broke from traditional coinage styles and remains one of the most distinctive in U.S. history.

The 1909-O issue is a standout because it was the last gold coin ever struck at the New Orleans Mint before its closure later that year. The mint had served the nation since 1838, producing coins in gold, silver, and copper. Its gold coin production was never as prolific as other mints, and in 1909 the half eagle was the only denomination struck in gold. The mintage was just 34,200 pieces, a low figure even by early 20th-century standards. Many of these coins quickly entered circulation and saw heavy use, making high-grade survivors exceptionally elusive.

In AU55, this coin retains strong detail with only light wear on the high points of the design. The surfaces show original mint luster in the protected areas, complemented by warm gold coloration that speaks to its originality. CACG’s certification affirms the coin’s quality, giving collectors added confidence in its grade and appeal. This is a piece that bridges the gap between affordability and investment-grade rarity, offering the charm of a lightly circulated example without the high premium of Mint State pieces.

Collectors pursuing a complete set of Indian Head Half Eagles face the challenge of acquiring a 1909-O. Its one-year status means there are no substitutes; the coin is absolutely required to complete the series. For New Orleans Mint specialists, it represents the last chapter in the city’s storied coinage history, making it a double draw for both type and mintmark collectors.

The coin contains .24187 troy ounces of gold, giving it an intrinsic bullion value in addition to its substantial numismatic worth. However, its scarcity and demand far outstrip its melt value. Examples like this AU55 are often held long-term, as their availability is limited and demand from advanced collectors remains consistently strong.

Whether as the keystone of a U.S. gold type set, the essential New Orleans Mint gold issue, or a standout rarity in an Indian Head Half Eagle collection, the 1909-O delivers both historical significance and tangible beauty. This CACG AU55 example offers an excellent opportunity to acquire one of the most important 20th-century U.S. gold coins in a desirable grade.