68,000 Likes Celebration: My Gold Indian Coin Triumph

After collecting coins for years, hitting 68,000 likes on my coin page felt like the perfect reason to treat myself. To celebrate, I added something truly special to my collection: a $2.50 Gold Indian, specifically the 1911-D with that elusive weak D variety. It’s not just another coin; it’s the piece that completes my set and gives me that collector’s thrill every time I hold it.

Why This Coin Was My Ultimate Celebration Choice

When I first started assembling the $2.50 Gold Indian series, I knew the 1911-D weak D would be the toughest find. With only 15 coins in the entire series minted between 1909 and 1929, this one’s the star – notoriously rare and commanding four-figure prices. After hunting patiently, I landed mine at what felt like a steal (though it still stung the wallet!). I don’t usually chase varieties, but this weak D was different. Holding it now, I get why collectors say certain coins feel like victory trophies.

The Story Behind the Design

Let me share what makes these coins so fascinating. Designed by Bella Lyon Pratt (who learned from the great Augustus Saint-Gaudens), they stand out with their unusual recessed design – all the details sit below the surface rather than being raised. Only the 1911 and 1914 issues came from both Philadelphia and Denver mints; the rest were Philly-only. People back then actually worried those recesses could trap germs! Today, that quirky history just adds to their charm.

Grading Realities and the Weak D Hunt

My coin came back from NGC graded AU-55 – showing light wear but strong details where it counts. But the real adventure was verifying that weak D mintmark! In hand, I had to tilt it under bright light to spot the faint ‘D’ near the arrowhead. Photos simply couldn’t capture it properly – my attempts made it look like NGC might’ve mislabeled it. But trust me, it’s there! This experience taught me: always inspect tricky varieties in person if you can. Slabs sometimes hide details with shadows, so grab your loupe and be patient.

Hands-On Tips From My Experience

If you’re chasing a coin like this, here’s what I learned:

• Market Watch: The 1911-D weak D has wild price swings. I’ve spotted deals popping up in auctions or with trusted dealers – stay alert and ready to jump.
• Grading Approach: Focus on eye appeal over tiny grade differences. AU coins like mine offer great value next to pricier uncirculated examples – just triple-check that mintmark’s real.
• Collection Strategy: Grab tough dates early when building a set. Even if you don’t specialize in varieties, this weak D adds such cool historical context.
• Care Tips: Keep gold coins cool and dry to avoid toning. Those recessed designs trap gunk easily – use gloves and clean minimally if absolutely necessary.

Adding this coin has been one of my most rewarding collecting moments. It’s proof that big milestones deserve something tangible and shining – especially when it comes with a story this good.