When they were first minted in 2006, American Gold Buffalo bullion coins became the U.S. Mint’s first bullion coin struck in one troy ounce of .9999 fine gold. These coins are 24 karat .9999 fine gold, created to compete with other .9999 fine gold bullion coins of the world. The legislation that was passed by Congress mandated that these coins be struck from newly mined gold from American mines, not from gold that has been recycled.
American Gold Buffalo bullion coins are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government for weight and purity. These one-ounce coins have a nominal face value of $50, just like the American Gold Eagle Bullion coin.
Design of American Gold Buffalo Bullion Coins
Much like the obverse of the American Gold Eagle coin was patterned after the Saint-Gaudens $20 Gold Double Eagle coins of 1907-1933, both sides of the American Gold Buffalo coin are faithful renditions of an iconic coin from U.S. history. The design of American Gold Buffalo bullion coins is taken from James Earle Fraser’s iconic Indian Head Nickel (or Buffalo Nickel) that was minted between 1913 and 1938.
The obverse of American Gold Buffalo bullion coins copies James Earle Fraser’s American Indian Head portrait. This The word “LIBERTY” is on the right upper periphery while the date is at the base of the Indian’s neck.
Fraser drew inspiration from his childhood experiences on the American frontier and his admiration for Native American culture. The Indian Head design, created in 1913, is a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and Big Tree. Fraser’s meticulous attention to detail captures the noble and stoic essence of the Native American profile, making it one of the most iconic and enduring images in American coinage.
James Earle Fraser’s reverse design for the Buffalo Nickel, which later graced the American Gold Buffalo coins, is a powerful tribute to the American bison. Fraser’s inspiration came from his childhood encounters with these majestic creatures on the Great Plains and his desire to honor their significance in American history. The reverse design features a detailed and lifelike depiction of a bison standing on a mound, symbolizing strength and resilience. Fraser’s portrayal of the bison not only highlights the animal’s physical grandeur but also serves as a reminder of the once vast herds that roamed the American landscape, making it a revered symbol in American numismatic history.
It also displays “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” above the buffalo on the right and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” is in the upper periphery. In front of the buffalo is “IN GOD WE TRUST,” while the denomination is on the mound on which the buffalo stands and is expressed as “$50.” The lower periphery is inscribed with “1 OZ. .9999 FINE GOLD.”
Types of American Gold Buffalo Bullion Coins
There have been different varieties of Gold Buffalo bullion coins produced since they were first introduced. All American Gold Buffalo bullion coins are struck at the West Point minting facility but only the proof versions have a “W” mintmark. The uncirculated coins do not bear any mintmark.
Uncirculated American Gold Buffalo Coins
The uncirculated American Gold Buffalo coins, introduced in 2006, are crafted from 24-karat gold, making them the first-ever 1 oz .9999 fine gold coins produced by the United States Mint. These coins feature a matte finish and are struck for collectors and investors who appreciate high-quality gold bullion. Much like the American Gold Eagle coins, the American Gold Buffalo coins in uncirculated condition are sold to the public by coins dealers who get them directly from the United States Mint.
Proof American Gold Buffalo Coins
Proof American Gold Buffalo coins are specially minted for collectors, offering a high level of detail and a mirror-like finish. First released in 2006 alongside the uncirculated version, these coins are struck multiple times on polished planchets, ensuring exceptional clarity and sharpness in the design. The U.S. Mint sells proof versions directly to the public on their website.
Reverse Proof American Gold Buffalo Coins
A reverse proof American Gold Buffalo was minted in 2013 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the original Buffalo Nickel. These coins feature a striking contrast with a frosted background and polished, mirror-like design elements, creating a unique and visually appealing collector’s item. Less than 48,000 were struck, making them a rare and valuable coin in the numismatic market. Reverse proof gold buffalo coins have not been minted in any years since 2013.
Fractional American Gold Buffalo Coins
In 2008, the United States Mint produced fractional versions of the American Gold Buffalo coins. These coins were available in 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz sizes, providing more accessible options for collectors and investors who prefer smaller denominations of fine gold. They were sold individually and in 4-coin sets. 2008 is the only year fractional Gold Buffalo coins were minted, making a complete set valuable to collectors and investors.
Future releases of American Gold Buffalo Bullion Coins
American Gold Buffalo bullion coins are released annually, following the same release schedule as the American Eagle bullion coins. Presales start in the fall, with the release of the new issue usually occurring in January. These dates can be subject to delays, but the overall timeline has been consistent over recent years.
