The $5 Indian Head is among the most unique pre-1933 U.S. gold coins. It features an incused design, with the lettering and fine detail of the Indian head sunken into the surface of the gold. The intended purpose of the incused design was to create a durable gold coin that would stand up to the wear of being in general circulation. Consequently, the $5 Indian head is among the most well-preserved gold coins of its era.