American Buffalo Gold Bullion Coin
- Year of Issue: 2006 to Present
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 109-145
Background
American Buffalo Gold Bullion Coins are one ounce of .9999 fine 24-karat gold. They are investment-grade coins whose weight, content, and purity are guaranteed by the United States government. Although the coin is also legal tender, its face value of $50 is largely symbolic as the value of the gold it contains has historically been far greater.
The designs on both the obverse and reverse of the American Buffalo coin are steeped in American numismatic tradition. The images were originally executed by noted sculptor James Earle Fraser for the Buffalo, or Indian Head, nickel. The American Buffalo coin uses what is known to collectors as Fraser’s 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type I design.
The U.S. Mint does not sell American Buffalo Bullion Coins directly to the public. Locate an authorized dealer. Prices are based on the market price of gold, plus a small premium to cover coining and distribution costs.
Characteristics
The designs are based on James Earle Fraser's 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1.
The obverse (heads) features the portrait of a Native American, honoring the legacy of our land’s first inhabitants.
The reverse (tails) shows an American bison, often called a buffalo. The design recalls the pioneering spirit of the nation’s westward expansion.
Obverse Inscriptions
- LIBERTY
- Year
Reverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- $50
- 1 OZ. .9999 FINE GOLD
Mint and Mint Mark
Specifications
- Content: Gold, 1.0000 troy ounce (31.1035g)
- Weight: 1.0001 troy ounce (31.108g)
- Diameter: 1.287in. (32.70mm)
- Thickness: 0.116in. (2.95mm)
Bullion coins do not have a mint mark.
Artist Information
- Designer: James Earle Fraser