The 1908 With Motto Eagle issue represents the first in the series to display the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. The motto was first placed on our nation’s coinage during the Civil War.

President Theodore Roosevelt did not like the idea of displaying the name of God on our nation’s coinage but Congress went with the demands of the public. Despite Roosevelt’s disapproval Congress decided to evoke the authority to tell the Mint to put the motto back on. IN GOD WE TRUST was thus placed prominently next to the Eagle’s breast and has never been interrupted on any coin since.

Strike Quality and Coloration of the 1908 With Motto Eagle

The 1908 With Motto Eagle is usually found with satiny mint luster. A full, sharp strike is typical for this date and this is a reason why a few examples can be found in MS65 and higher grades.

Color is most often a rich yellow-gold but some can be found with heavy hints of apricot-orange. A few are noted with traces of reddish-gold especially prominent in the Indian’s headdress.