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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53042
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/18/24 03:42:01 | ||
Gold
 49.16
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$2,610.72 | $2,623.80 |
The Certified 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo, graded PR70 by PCGS with the First Day of Issue designation and signed by John Mercanti, is a remarkable example of modern American coinage. This coin is part of the American Buffalo series, which was first introduced in 2006 by the United States Mint. The series holds historical significance as it marked the introduction of the first .9999 fine 24-karat gold coin by the U.S., making it a direct competitor to other high-purity bullion coins from around the world, such as the Canadian Maple Leaf and Austrian Philharmonic. The design of the Gold Buffalo is rooted in one of the most iconic coin designs in American history: James Earle Fraser’s Buffalo Nickel, which was first struck in 1913. The Proof Gold Buffalo, such as this 2017-W edition, is especially coveted for its detailed craftsmanship, limited mintage, and flawless proof finish, all of which make it a highly desirable coin for collectors and investors alike.
The obverse of the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo features Fraser’s timeless depiction of a Native American chieftain. This portrait is a composite of three different tribal leaders whom Fraser encountered during his time in the American West. The portrait is rendered with incredible detail, from the braided hair and feathered headdress to the sharp lines of the chieftain’s face. The high-relief proof strike of the coin enhances these details, allowing for an exceptional depth and clarity that sets the Proof Gold Buffalo apart from other gold bullion coins. Above the Native American’s profile, the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed in bold lettering, while the date "2017" is placed below the portrait. To the right of the date, the "W" mintmark indicates that this coin was struck at the prestigious West Point Mint. The proof finish, with its frosted design elements and highly reflective mirror-like background, adds a sense of depth and elegance, making the obverse design particularly striking.
The reverse of the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo showcases the majestic image of an American bison, modeled after Black Diamond, a famous buffalo that lived at the Central Park Zoo in New York City during the early 20th century. Fraser’s bison stands proudly on a small mound of dirt, symbolizing the rugged strength and resilience of the American frontier. The design captures the intricate details of the buffalo’s fur, the powerful stance, and the weight of the animal, all brought to life by the precision of the proof strike. Surrounding the image are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" at the top, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" to the left, and "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the right. The weight and gold purity of the coin, "ONE OUNCE .9999 FINE GOLD," is displayed prominently at the bottom, underscoring the coin’s substantial intrinsic value. The reverse design, much like the obverse, is enhanced by the coin’s flawless proof finish, with the bison’s frosted form standing in stark contrast to the mirrored background.
The 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo was struck at the West Point Mint, a facility known for producing some of the highest-quality collector coins in the United States. The West Point Mint’s reputation for excellence is well established, and its "W" mintmark is often seen as a symbol of quality and precision. Proof coins like this one are struck using specially prepared dies and planchets, with each coin receiving multiple strikes to ensure that every detail is perfectly rendered. The result is a coin with sharp, crisp details and a finish that is both flawless and visually stunning. The Proof Gold Buffalo is produced in limited quantities each year, and the 2017 issue is no exception, with a mintage of just 15,810 pieces. This limited mintage adds to the coin’s appeal, making it a sought-after piece for collectors who value both rarity and quality in their coins.
The First Day of Issue designation from PCGS indicates that this particular coin was among the first struck and released on the very first day of the coin’s issue. First Day of Issue coins are highly prized by collectors, as they often have sharper strikes and more detailed features due to being struck from fresh dies. The John Mercanti signature on this coin further enhances its collectability. Mercanti, the 12th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, is a legend in the world of numismatics, known for designing the reverse of the American Silver Eagle and for his long career with the Mint. His signature on the certification label adds an extra layer of prestige and historical significance to this already remarkable coin, making it a must-have for serious collectors.
Graded PR70 by PCGS, this 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo is in perfect condition, with no visible flaws or imperfections even under magnification. PR70 is the highest grade a proof coin can receive, indicating that the coin is of the highest possible quality. The flawless surfaces, combined with the deep mirrors of the proof finish and the frosted devices, create a striking visual contrast that enhances the beauty of the design. Collectors who seek out PR70 coins do so because they represent the pinnacle of numismatic quality, and coins with this grade are considered the best examples of their kind. The First Day of Issue designation, combined with the Mercanti signature, adds to the coin’s desirability and ensures that it will hold a special place in any collection.
The 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo is composed of 24-karat gold, with a fineness of .9999, making it one of the purest gold coins issued by the United States Mint. Each coin contains one troy ounce of gold, which provides significant intrinsic value in addition to its numismatic appeal. Investors appreciate the purity and weight of the Gold Buffalo, as it offers a tangible store of wealth. However, the Proof Gold Buffalo is much more than just a bullion coin; its artistic design, limited mintage, and flawless proof finish make it a coveted collector’s item. The combination of high gold content and numismatic rarity ensures that the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo will remain a valuable asset for both collectors and investors.
The Certified 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo PR70 PCGS First Day of Issue with the John Mercanti signature is a stunning example of American coinage. Its combination of perfect craftsmanship, historical design, and investment-grade gold make it a standout piece in any collection. The flawless PR70 grade, coupled with the First Day of Issue designation and the prestigious Mercanti signature, elevates this coin above other modern gold issues. As part of the celebrated Gold Buffalo series, the 2017-W Proof Gold Buffalo continues the legacy of one of America’s most iconic coin designs, offering collectors and investors a rare opportunity to own a piece of numismatic history.