Before 1977, this issue was nearly impossible to find in Uncirculated condition but an accumulation of about 60 nice Uncirculated pieces was discovered. Despite this find, it is still much harder to obtain than is usually perceived. It ranks a strong 8th in overall rarity and is certainly within the top half of the series for condition rarity. There is a lone MS68 graded by NGC and both services combined have graded a mere three MS67 coins.

1909-S Indian Gold Eagle: Strike Quality and Luster Variations

The 1909-S issue, like the 1908-S before it, usually exhibits a very sharp strike with good central detail, especially on the obverse.

The natural coloration of this second year San Francisco Mint issue is typically a highly desirable greenish-gold with hints of rose. A few are found with the vibrant yellow-gold color that is most often associated with Philadelphia Mint issues.

The luster varies from coin to coin. Many are found with slightly grainy surfaces while a smaller number are satiny with a more frosty texture.