The luster is usually frosty and soft in its texture but many 1909-D Indian Head Half Eagles have impaired luster as a result of mishandling. This is not an easy issue to find with original, undisturbed luster.

The coloration shows a very wide range of hues including reddish-gold to green-gold to rich yellow-gold. None of these are “better” than the other and it is up to the collector to decide which color he or she prefers.

The 1909-D Indian Head Half Eagle has average quality eye appeal. It is a well struck issue with decent luster and color but most are seen with heavy abrasions in the fields. It is very common in MS63 and below and MS64’s can certainly be found without a problem but true Gems are definitely scarce.

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