Indian Head $2-1/2 Gold Basic Set, Circulation Strikes and Proof (1908-1929)

The $2-1/2 Indian set was issued from 1908 through 1929. The $2-1/2 Indian series is one of only two ever issued with an incuse design, the $5 Indian being the other. There are only 15 circulation strikes in the complete set, including three issues from the Denver Mint. The key dates in gem condition are the 1911-D, 1914-D, 1912, 1914, and 1911, in that order. The proofs are called "Matte Proofs," but the 1909 and 1910 coins are Roman Finish, a glowing gold color that is about as "matte" as sunshine on a clear day. The proofs are rare. The highest mintage of any coin in the set is 682 pieces, of which 400 are believed to have been melted the following year.