2017-09-07 Thu

The first Indian Eagle to feature the inscription IN GOD WE TRUST on the reverse was "1908 Motto Indian eagle". The Indian eagles minted in 1907 and early 1908 without the line, led to agitations among the religious community. The motto reappeared in May 1908.

The Indian eagle was designed by sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and does not feature a Native American. It depicts a portrait of Liberty wearing a feathered “war bonnet”. The reverse design was inspired by the reverse design of President Roosevelt’s second inaugural medal.

Out of the 341,370 pieces that were struck, many of them are available in Choice Mint State but are rare in Gem condition. An MS-64+ (PCGS) example will be offered in September 2017 Collectors Choice Online Auction by Stack’s Bowers. The offered coin has richly frosted devices and a smooth complexion.