The luster on the 1916-S generally ranges between moderately subdued to bright and flashy. The color ranges from greenish-gold to orange-gold. The eye appeal of this date is generally somewhat below average. While most are well struck, it is very hard to find a piece that does not show detracting marks. In addition, the luster is not as good as on some of the earlier San Francisco Eagles of this design.

This is the last of the relatively affordable San Francisco Indian Head Eagles and this makes the 1916-S a very popular issue.

The 1916-S saw limited circulation and is usually seen in AU55 to MS62 grades. It becomes noticeably scarce in MS63 and it is rare in MS64. At one time this date was essentially unknown in Gem Uncirculated but the discovery of some small hoards have made the 1916-S more collectible in MS65.

Back ↵