In 1926 the value of one dollar was still related to a fixed weight of gold. People carrying gold coins in their pockets knew with a certainty they held something of value. In 1933 U.S. coins made of gold with values ranging from the $0.005 half-cent to the $20.00 Double Eagle were discontinued. A 1926 Indian Head Quarter Eagle, which is particularly unique because of it’s recessed design, has a denomination of $2.50. It measures 18mm and weighs 4.18g. The Quarter Eagle is 90% gold and 10% copper and today is worth it’s numismatic and precious metal value.

A modern dime (10¢) measures 17.91mm and weighs 2.26g. Today’s dime is cupronickel clad and worth $0.10.

These two coins differ by color, a 90% weight difference and more slightly by dimension. The only obvious similarities are their size and shape. Despite their apparent dissimilarities I was handed this 1926 Quarter Eagle as 10¢ change.

I know a little about the history of money and I love gold coins. There is something special about holding a Double Eagle in your hand. Gold offers an appealing tactile experience. It feels good. Knowing the price of gold today, you’d be holding a $1000 coin instead of the $20 coin defined in 1792.

Believe it or not, I might have noticed her scoop this gold piece from the change drawer and watched her hand as it crossed the counter to deliver my portion of a dollar in coin. I could have said: “Thank you” as I dumped the change into my pocket. Of all the many designs on currency, none are more instantly appealing to me than those with the Native American motifs.

The condition of this coin makes it more valuable as a collectible coin than for it’s precious metal value. It is a nice coin and although it’s still legal tender at it’s face value of $2.50 this mistaken dime is worth more than $200.