The 1913 $5 Indian Head Half Eagle was issued during a stable moment in American economic history, shortly before sweeping global events reshaped financial systems worldwide. At the time, gold coinage still played an important role in everyday transactions and institutional reserves. Today, 1913 $5 Indian Gold Half Eagle Coins in Mint State condition are available online at BGASC.

Highlights:

• Arrives in a protective plastic slab!
• 6th year for the Indian Gold Half Eagle!
• Declared mintage of 915,901 coins at Philadelphia!
• Limited availability of certified specimens!
• Contains .242 troy oz of actual gold content.
• Bears a face value of $5 (USD) backed by the federal government.
• Issued a Grade of Mint State 62 by the Professional Coin Grading Service.
• On the obverse is an indigenous figure.
• The reverse depicts an American bald eagle.

Each 1913 $5 Indian Gold Half Eagle Coin listed here has received a Mint State 62 grade from PCGS. Coins at this level typically show a few noticeable marks or hairlines in focal areas, which is expected for gold coins of this age. Even with these minor imperfections, the overall appearance remains attractive. Many examples feature warm gold coloring, often described as yellow-gold or honey-toned. While more than 900,000 coins were originally minted at Philadelphia in 1913, only an estimated 44,000 pieces are believed to survive today, with fewer still meeting Mint State standards.

Obverse

The obverse of the 1913 Indian Half Eagle Coin displays a left-profile portrait of an indigenous figure. Designed by Bela Lyon Pratt, this artwork was innovative for its time due to its incuse striking method. Instead of being raised above the surface, the design elements are recessed into the coin, offering a unique texture and appearance.

Reverse

On the reverse of the 1913 $5 Gold Half Eagle is the American bald eagle. The bird is shown standing on a bundle of arrows with its wings folded. An olive branch surrounds the arrows, representing peace and strength. This reverse design is also struck incuse, matching the obverse style and completing the distinctive look of the Indian Head Half Eagle series.

History

The year 1913 sits near the peak of the Progressive Era, when industrial growth and expanding infrastructure supported a rapidly developing economy. Gold Half Eagles were frequently used in large transactions and as backing for financial institutions. Combined mintages from Philadelphia and San Francisco totaled over 1.3 million coins, but the widespread melting of gold coins in 1933 significantly reduced the number of surviving examples, especially those in higher grades.

Ordering

If you have any questions about gold coins for sale, BGASC customer service is available at 888-992-4272, online through our web chat, and via email.