2015-W $50 American Gold Buffalo .9999 Fine, First Day of Issue PCGS PR70DCAM - Moy Signature

It was in 2006 that the United States Mint first released the American Buffalo Gold Coin, a 24-karat coin, per the Presidential $1 Coin Act. This was the first time ever (2006) that the U.S. government has produced a pure (.9999) 24-karat gold coin for the public. Since its initial offering the coin's value has skyrocketed. The price of this piece in June of 2006 was $800.00. This coin, struck at the West Point Mint of New York, contains 1.000 troy ounce of gold (31.1035 grams) and its diameter is 32.70 mm.

The mintage for this 2015-W (West Point Mint) issue was 16,591, and PCGS has graded 73 as PR70 Deep Cameo. This coin’s holder carries the signature of Edmond C. Moy, who served as the 38th U.S. Mint Director from 2006 to 2011. It is marked “First Day of Issue Philadelphia.” Collectors Universe gives this issue a price of $5,000.00.

The American Buffalo Gold Coin’s obverse and reverse present the famous coin designs crafted by renowned sculptor and medalist James Earle Fraser, who was once a student of Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The coin features a recreation of the popular “Buffalo” or “Indian Head” nickel that was produced from 1913 until 1938.  It got its nickname from the American Bison on the reverse side of the coin. Fraser’s original design was inspired by his love of the American Old West, its lore, and its people.  His initial ‘F’ is found under the date, as it is on the beloved Buffalo nickels.

Sculptor-medalist James Earle Fraser, whose Buffalo nickel design graces both sides of this stunning gold $50 Buffalo. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.