1913 Indian Head Quarter Eagle (1913 $2.50 Indian) NGC PF67. Even while Matte Proof Indian Quarter Eagles are often found in higher grades, it would be hard to surpass the quality we currently offer here. Certified by NGC in the coveted 67 grade, only 11 have been graded this high, with a mere 3 finer. Examples have become increasingly hard to find in all grades, as both collectors and investors realize the true rarity of these pieces. Unpopular with collectors at the time of issue, mintages were extremely low and all Proof Indian quarter eagles are rare in any grade. In superb condition, as seen here, it is even rarer, and every opportunity to buy a Proof-67 Indian quarter eagle should be considered with great care.

While Matte Proofs, such as this piece offered here have been described as dull and dark in earlier numismatic references, one fully appreciates the beauty of these pieces when viewed in hand. The strike on these pieces is extremely sharp, with full detail showing in all feathers of the Indian on the obverse, a feature never seen on the regular business strikes. Add to that the extremely small mintage and even smaller survival rates, and it is not hard to realize and appreciate the true beauty of these gold coins.

The Proof 1913 Indian Quarter eagle had a mintage of just 165 coins, and mintages would further go down during the next few years until Proofs were completely abandoned after 1915. As such, this is a rare type coin, and a complete set in any grade is a major accomplishment. Of this particular issue, similar in rarity to the 1912, it is estimated that no more than 75 examples exist in all grades. Many of these are impounded in specialized collections of 20th century Proof gold, an area of numismatics which attracts a small but devoted number of specialists. Any offering of higher graded Proofs should thus be considered by anyone seeking these pieces, as the opportunity to buy them could very well get slimmer every year, with increasing prices as a result.

This is a wonderful example of this rare Matte Proof. Toned to a lighter yellow color than other issues of the same series, the services exhibit that characteristic granular services creating by the production process. Another characteristic is the extremely sharp strike, which highlights even the minuscule details of the design of the last quarter eagles ever produced. No blemishes are worth mentioning, and no copper spots are seen on either side. In all, this is a great and rare coin which should please any conscious collector of gold coins.