Certified Proof Gold Buffalo 2018-W PF70 NGC Moy sig.

The 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo, certified in perfect PF70 condition by NGC and signed by Edmund C. Moy, is an exceptional example of modern U.S. gold coinage. The Gold Buffalo series, introduced in 2006, was the first 24-karat (99.99% pure) gold coin issued by the U.S. Mint, quickly becoming a favorite among collectors and investors alike. The 2018 edition continues this tradition of excellence, featuring the same iconic design first seen on James Earle Fraser's 1913 Buffalo Nickel. The "W" mint mark signifies that this coin was struck at the West Point Mint, a facility known for producing some of the highest-quality proof coins in the country. With its flawless PF70 grade, this coin is a pristine example of the U.S. Mint’s craftsmanship, and the signature of Edmund C. Moy, a former U.S. Mint Director, adds to its historical significance.

The obverse of the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo features a detailed profile of a Native American, a design adapted from Fraser’s original Buffalo Nickel. The portrait is said to be a composite of three different Native American chiefs, embodying the spirit and history of the indigenous people of North America. The details of the Native American’s facial features, hair, and braids are finely rendered in this proof coin, with the frosted devices standing out sharply against the mirrored fields. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears at the top, with the year "2018" and the "W" mint mark located below the portrait. The realistic and timeless depiction of the Native American in proof condition allows collectors to appreciate Fraser’s artistry in high detail, especially when the coin is graded at a perfect PF70 level, meaning it has no visible flaws even under magnification.

The reverse of the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo features the powerful image of an American buffalo, or bison, standing on a mound. This design, also borrowed from the original 1913 Buffalo Nickel, represents the majestic wildlife of the American West. Fraser modeled this design after "Black Diamond," a famous buffalo housed at the Central Park Zoo in New York. The reverse is inscribed with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" across the top, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" to the right of the buffalo, and the weight and purity of the coin, "1 OZ. .9999 FINE GOLD," beneath the image. The denomination "$50" is located at the bottom. In PF70 condition, the buffalo’s fur, muscular body, and the natural landscape beneath its feet are all rendered in exquisite detail, creating a highly realistic and dynamic image. The proof strike enhances the contrast between the frosted buffalo and the highly polished background, making the design stand out even more.

The Gold Buffalo series holds a special place in American numismatics as the first .9999 fine gold coin issued by the U.S. Mint. Prior to its introduction, American gold coins like the American Gold Eagle were struck in 22-karat gold. The demand for a 24-karat gold coin to compete with similar offerings from other countries, such as the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf, led to the creation of the Gold Buffalo. Since its inception, the series has been popular with both collectors and investors due to its gold content, beautiful design, and limited mintage. The proof versions, such as the 2018-W, are struck in much smaller quantities than the bullion versions, making them more exclusive and highly sought after.

The 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo was struck at the West Point Mint, which has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest proof and bullion coins in the world. Proof coins are struck multiple times on specially prepared planchets, resulting in sharper details and a mirror-like finish that distinguishes them from regular bullion coins. The West Point Mint’s attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the design, from the intricate lines of the Native American’s face to the textured fur of the buffalo, is beautifully presented. The "W" mint mark beneath the date on the obverse serves as a mark of the mint’s high standards of quality.

The mintage of the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo was relatively limited, making it a more exclusive piece within the series. Proof Gold Buffalos are typically struck in smaller numbers than their bullion counterparts, adding to their desirability among collectors. The PF70 grade awarded by NGC ensures that this particular coin is in perfect condition, free from any blemishes, spots, or handling marks. Additionally, the certification label features the signature of Edmund C. Moy, who served as Director of the U.S. Mint from 2006 to 2011 and oversaw the early years of the Gold Buffalo series. Moy’s signature adds another layer of collectibility to the coin, as it connects it directly to the leadership that helped establish this iconic American gold coin series.

The 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo PF70 NGC with the Moy signature is a superb example of modern U.S. coinage. Its combination of a flawless proof strike, a classic and iconic design, and the purity of 24-karat gold make it a standout piece in any collection. The added significance of Edmund Moy’s signature on the certification label further enhances the coin’s appeal, making it not just a perfect specimen of numismatic art but also a piece of history tied to the evolution of American gold coinage. Whether for its gold content, its design, or its perfect condition, the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo is a prized addition to any collection of U.S. coins or modern gold issues.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 2018
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: W
• Thickness: N/A
• Grade: N/A