The 1 oz American Gold Buffalo is the first-ever 24-karat (.9999 fine) gold coin issued by the United States Mint, launched in 2006 to compete with other global pure gold coins like the Canadian Maple Leaf.
Struck from 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams) of .9999 fine gold, the Gold Buffalo is highly valued by investors who prefer pure, 24-karat gold bullion. Unlike the American Gold Eagle (which is 22k), the Buffalo contains no alloys—only pure gold.
The design is based on James Earle Fraser’s iconic 1913 Type I Buffalo Nickel:
Obverse: A stoic Native American profile, a composite of real tribal chiefs.
Reverse: A majestic American bison, believed to be modeled after “Black Diamond” from the Central Park Zoo.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 troy oz (31.103 grams)
Diameter: 32.7 mm
Thickness: 2.95 mm
Purity: .9999 fine gold (24k)
Face Value: $50 USD (legal tender)
Edge: Reeded
Minted by: United States Mint (West Point)
The Gold Buffalo is IRA-eligible, backed by the U.S. government, and offered in brilliant uncirculated and proof finishes. It’s popular with investors seeking maximum gold purity and collectors who appreciate Fraser’s historic design. As one of the most beautiful modern gold coins, it bridges historical artistry with pure bullion value.
