1911-D Indian Half Eagle. MS-61 (NGC).Highly significant Mint State preservation for this low mintage, key date entry in the challenging Indian half eagle series of 1908 to 1929. Both sides are handsomely toned in a blend of deep olive and warmer orange-gold. Boldly to sharply struck throughout the design, the D mintmark is fully outlined, if a tad soft. The in hand appearance is uncommonly smooth for the assigned grade, and the eye appeal is strong.The production of 72,500 half eagles at the Denver Mint in 1911 gives this issue one of lowest mintages in the Indian series, second only to the 1909-O. Mintmark collecting was still in its infancy at the time and most collectors were content to add a Proof example for the year. As such, the 1911-D $5 is one of the most challenging Indian half eagles to locate in Mint State. While relatively available in AU, the issue becomes conditionally scarce any finer with Mint State examples eagerly sought by advanced 20th century gold enthusiasts.
