Augustus Saint-Gaudens is usually associated with the $20 Double Eagle he designed. These large gold coins are affectionately known as “Saints” as a nod to their famous creator. However, unbeknownst to many, Saint-Gaudens also designed the lovely $10 Indian Eagle. This motif, in fact, was the sculptor’s first choice for the Double Eagle. President Theodore Roosevelt originally asked that a Native American-themed design be featured on the $20 gold coin, but instead elected to use this image on the $10 Eagle.
Much like the $20 “Saint,” the $10 Indian went through numerous revisions in its first year. The design, while extremely attractive, was prone to striking weakness. Many pieces came off the dies with incomplete detail in the centers. The strike issue was eventually resolved, but a new issue developed. The public was incensed that the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” was omitted from the coin. After intense public backlash, Congress ordered the U.S. Mint to restore this wording on the $10 Eagle.
The $10 Indian Eagle enjoyed tremendous demand during its 25+ years of production. Banks and institutions throughout the world used it as a store of value. Along with the $20 Double Eagle, it was one of the most popular gold coins for reserves and large transactions. This is why so many $10 Indians have been located overseas; many international governments and merchants preferred American coins over their own local currency! U.S. Mint-issued gold coins were universally trusted and accepted anywhere on the globe.
Ironically, while one Roosevelt helped created the $10 Indian, another discontinued to the coin. When Franklin D. Roosevelt banned private gold ownership in 1933, the U.S. Mint immediately halted production of the $10 Indian Eagle. A tiny quantity of 1933 $10 Indians managed to escape the Mint before this executive order; they have sold for upwards of $500k each! Luckily for collectors, the average $10 Indian is much more affordable—especially in today’s market.
1933 $10 Indian Head Gold Eagle
Like all other vintage U.S. gold coins, premiums for $10 Indians ebb and flow depending on market conditions. During periods of strong demand, $10 Indians have traded for 50 to 100% over their melt value. This is especially true in periods of volatility. Meanwhile, in quiet markets like today, premiums often settle to much more reasonable levels. This allows shrewd collectors and investors the chance to buy at a tiny premium—and now is one such opportunity.
Today, we can offer you a limited quantity of $10 Indian gold coins graded MS62 by NGC. These are Uncirculated specimens, meaning they show zero signs of wear or everyday use. They likely spent decades sitting in rolls or sealed bags untouched. Thanks to their lucky fate, these Mint State $10 Indians have survived in impeccable condition. They exhibit clean fields, ample amounts of original luster, and excellent eye appeal. You’ll be impressed at the quality of these coins!
All of our coins are “With Motto” pieces, i.e. they were struck after the mint was ordered to put “IN GOD WE TRUST” back on the $10 Indian’s reverse. No ungodly coins in this lot!
Take advantage of the chance to buy one of America’s most beautiful gold coins at an all-time low premium. If you don’t own $10 Indians in your collection or portfolio, this offer represents an outstanding opportunity. Not long ago, you couldn’t even buy a low-grade cleaned/scratched $10 Indian for anything less than $800. Now, you can pick up beautiful NGC-graded MS62 specimens for an even lower price. Be sure to pounce on this special discount; it may be years (if ever) before we can offer high-quality pieces like this at such a major discount.
