American Gold Buffalo Coins (Proof)

Proof Gold Buffalos

In 2006, the United States Mint introduced its first 1 oz .9999 fine gold coin with the Gold Buffalo. These coins were instantly a huge success, providing competition for the Canadian Gold Maple Leafs. Proof Gold coins are struck multiple times on specially prepared planchets to provide a unique finish that appeals to collectors. The dies used in this process give the coins a mirrorlike appearance, in which the coin's device appears to be floating over the liquid of the field. The result is a stunning visual effect that makes the coin a true work of art.

The Gold Buffalo coin is designed after James Earle Fraser's famous 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel. The obverse shows the well-known Indian Head design, created by combining images of three Native American chiefs: Iron Tail (Lakota), Two Moons (Cheyenne) and John Big Tree (Seneca). The reverse features the classic buffalo design modeled after Black Diamond, the bison living in New York City's Central Park Zoo in the early 1900s, as well as inscriptions of the weight, denomination, and gold content.

Each year, the Proof Gold Buffalo is minted in four different denominations: 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. The weight, purity, and gold content of each coin are guaranteed by the United States government, making them a popular choice among investors who seek the security of government-backed bullion. Some investors prefer the purity of the Gold Buffalo Proof coin to the purity of 22-karat gold coins like the Gold Eagle Proof.

In addition to their intrinsic gold value as a precious metal, Proof Gold Buffalo coins also have numismatic value due to their limited mintage and beautiful design. Collectors and investors can purchase these coins directly from the United States Mint or through authorized dealers.

History of the U.S. Mint

The United States Mint is the official mint of the United States federal government. It was established by Congress with the Coinage Act of 1792, which authorized the construction of a mint in Philadelphia and the production of coins for circulation.

The first coins produced by the United States Mint were copper cents, half cents, and silver dimes, quarters, and half dollars. The mint also produced gold coins, including the famous $20 Double Eagle coin, which was first introduced in 1849 during the California Gold Rush.

Over the years, the United States Mint has expanded to include several other facilities across the country, including mints in Denver, San Francisco, and West Point, as well as a bullion depository in Fort Knox, Kentucky. Today, the United States Mint is responsible for producing all the circulating coinage in the United States, as well as commemorative coins, bullion coins, and other numismatic products.

In addition to producing coins, the United States Mint has played an important role in American history. During World War II, the mint produced military medals and decorations, and during the Civil War, the mint played a critical role in producing currency for the Union Army. Today, the United States Mint continues to honor American history and culture through its commemorative coin programs, which celebrate everything from the National Parks to the Apollo 11 moon landing.