1909 Indian Head Quarter Eagles: Eye Appeal, Rarity, and Proof Strikes
The overall level of eye appeal ranges from slightly below average to average. Most are reasonably well struck, but show numerous marks on the surfaces and have inferior luster. Pieces are sometimes available with good eye appeal and the collector should wait for one, which qualifies as such.
To qualify in the Condition Census, a 1909 Indian Head Quarter Eagle must grade Mint State-66.
Most 1909 Proof Indian Head Quarter Eagles were struck with a light satiny finish that is known to collectors as “Roman Gold.” The coloration of these Proofs is a rich yellow-gold and the texture is a hybrid of matte and mirror surfaces. 139 were struck and approximately 55-65 are known. This is the rarest Proof Indian Head Quarter Eagle in high grades and Gems are extremely rare.