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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53296
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 12/21/24 06:06:02 | ||
Gold
 29.19
|
$2,622.00 | $2,636.35 |
The 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo, certified in perfect PF70 condition by NGC and signed by Edmund C. Moy, is a stunning example of modern American numismatics. The Gold Buffalo series, first introduced in 2006, was the first U.S. Mint coin to be struck from .9999 fine (24-karat) gold, offering collectors and investors a pure gold option alongside other gold bullion products. The 2017 Proof Gold Buffalo continues this tradition, featuring the iconic design based on James Earle Fraser’s 1913 Buffalo Nickel. The "W" mint mark signifies that this coin was struck at the West Point Mint, known for its expertise in producing high-quality proof and bullion coins. The perfect PF70 grade, certified by NGC, ensures that this coin has no visible imperfections even under magnification, making it a pristine collectible. Additionally, the certification label signed by Edmund C. Moy, a former U.S. Mint Director, adds further numismatic significance to this piece, tying it to a key figure in the development of the Gold Buffalo series.
The obverse of the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo features a detailed profile of a Native American, adapted from Fraser’s original Buffalo Nickel design. This portrait is a composite of three Native American chiefs, embodying the strength, dignity, and history of the indigenous peoples of North America. The details in the Native American’s hair, facial features, and feathers in the braid are exceptionally sharp in proof condition, with the frosted devices standing out against the highly reflective fields. The inscription "LIBERTY" is prominently placed at the top of the coin, with the date "2017" and the "W" mint mark situated just below the neck of the portrait. In PF70 condition, the obverse presents an immaculate appearance, with perfect contrast between the frosted devices and the mirrored fields, creating a striking visual appeal that enhances the beauty of Fraser’s classic design.
The reverse of the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo features the powerful image of an American buffalo, or bison, standing on a grassy mound. This design, also created by James Earle Fraser, is modeled after a real buffalo named Black Diamond, who lived at the Central Park Zoo in New York during the early 20th century. The reverse design includes the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above the buffalo and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" to the right. Below the buffalo are the weight and purity markings, "1 OZ. .9999 FINE GOLD," and the denomination "$50." In PF70 condition, the buffalo’s fur, musculature, and the textured grass are all finely detailed, creating a lifelike and dynamic representation of this majestic creature. The proof finish amplifies the contrast between the frosted buffalo and the polished background, adding depth and dimension to the reverse design.
The Gold Buffalo series was introduced in 2006 in response to growing demand for 24-karat gold bullion coins that could compete with offerings from other countries, such as Canada’s Gold Maple Leaf. The U.S. Mint’s decision to produce a pure gold coin with a design rooted in American history has made the Gold Buffalo one of the most popular modern gold bullion coins. The series honors both the artistic legacy of James Earle Fraser’s Buffalo Nickel and the high standards of craftsmanship that the U.S. Mint is known for. Proof versions of the Gold Buffalo are particularly prized for their stunning finish and limited mintage, making them ideal for collectors who seek both aesthetic beauty and intrinsic value in their coins.
The 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo was struck at the West Point Mint, a facility that has become synonymous with the production of America’s finest bullion and proof coinage. Proof coins are struck multiple times on specially prepared planchets, ensuring that every detail of the design is sharp and well-defined. The mirror-like fields and frosted devices that result from this process are the hallmark of a proof coin, and the West Point Mint’s reputation for precision and quality is evident in the 2017 Proof Gold Buffalo. The "W" mint mark, found beneath the date on the obverse, signifies the coin’s origin from this prestigious mint, further enhancing its appeal.
The mintage of the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo was limited, as is typical for proof coins in this series. While exact mintage figures can vary from year to year, proof Gold Buffalos are struck in significantly smaller numbers than their bullion counterparts, making them more exclusive and sought-after by collectors. The PF70 grade, awarded by NGC, guarantees that this particular coin is in perfect condition, free from any blemishes, spots, or marks. Additionally, the signature of Edmund C. Moy, who served as Director of the U.S. Mint from 2006 to 2011 and oversaw the launch of the Gold Buffalo series, adds an extra layer of historical importance to the coin. Moy’s signature on the certification label is highly valued by collectors, as it connects the coin to the leadership that helped shape this iconic American gold coin.
The 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo PF70 NGC Moy signature is a superb example of modern U.S. coinage. Its combination of flawless proof strike, a classic American design, and the purity of 24-karat gold make it a standout piece in any collection. The coin’s historical significance is enhanced by Edmund Moy’s signature, tying it to the early years of the Gold Buffalo series. Whether for its perfect condition, its beautiful design, or its gold content, the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo is a must-have for collectors of American gold coins and proof coinage. Its limited mintage and perfect grade ensure that it will remain a prized addition to any numismatic portfolio for years to come.