Collection: Type 4, With Motto (Indian Eagle)

Designed by: Augustus Saint-Gaudens
Issue Dates: 1908-1933
Composition: 90% gold, 10% copper
Diameter: 27 mm
Weight: 16.72 grams (258.02 grains)
Edge: 46 stars 1908-1911; 48 stars 1912-1933
Business Strike Mintage: 14,385,139
Proof Mintage: 768

1908–1933 Indian Head Eagle – With Motto | Classic U.S. Gold Type Coin

In 1908, the revered Indian Head $10 Eagle by Augustus Saint-Gaudens was modified to include the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on the reverse—added by special act of Congress after public outcry over its initial omission. This revised design would remain in use until the series ended in 1933, making it one of the most artistically admired and historically significant gold types in U.S. coinage.

The obverse features Miss Liberty in a Native American feathered headdress, facing left with LIBERTY inscribed on the band. Thirteen stars arc above, and the date appears below. The reverse presents a bold perched eagle, flanked by the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM and, beginning in 1908, IN GOD WE TRUST to the right field.

From 1908 to 1911, coins featured 46 raised stars on the rim, reflecting the number of U.S. states at the time. In 1912, this was updated to 48 stars, aligning with the admission of New Mexico and Arizona.

Mintage and Rarity Profile

Business strikes were produced consistently from 1908 to 1916, with sporadic issues afterward:

• 1920-S,

• 1926 (Philadelphia),

• 1930-S,

• 1932, and

• 1933, the final year of U.S. gold circulation coinage.

Due to their heavy use in international trade and interbank transfers, most Indian Head Eagles from the earlier years are seen today in circulated grades, often Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU).

While Uncirculated examples exist for common dates, such as 1926 and 1932, superb Mint State (MS65 and above)coins are rare across the series, with most high-grade survivors concentrated in these two issues. Other dates—especially from the 1910s and the low-mintage San Francisco Mint issues—are significantly rarer in pristine condition.

This iconic gold series offers collectors an opportunity to own a piece of American Renaissance coinage and Gilded Age monetary history. Whether you're acquiring a single example for a type set or seeking out key dates for a complete registry, the With Motto Indian Eagle (1908–1933) holds lasting value and collector appeal.