American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin
- Year of Issue: 2006 to Present
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 109-145
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Background
The American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin is the first 24–karat gold proof coin ever struck by the U.S. Mint and is the collector version of the American Buffalo Gold Bullion Coin.
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 nickel debuted in 1913 and was produced until 1938, quickly becoming one of the nation’s best-loved circulating coins. The Mint used what is known to collectors as Fraser’s 1913, Type I design.
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
- Composition: 99.99% Gold
- Weight: 1.0000 troy ounce
- Diameter: 1.287 inches (32.70 mm)
- Thickness: 0.116 inch (2.95 mm)
Artist Information
- Designer: James Earle Fraser