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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53040
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/18/24 03:44:02 | ||
Gold
 48.25
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$2,609.80 | $2,622.90 |
The Certified 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo, graded PR70 by PCGS with the coveted Black Diamond First Strike designation, represents a pinnacle of modern American numismatics. As part of the American Buffalo series, which began in 2006, this coin is struck from .9999 fine 24-karat gold, offering both collectors and investors an exceptional example of the U.S. Mint’s craftsmanship. The Gold Buffalo series was introduced as the United States' answer to the demand for a high-purity gold coin, capable of competing with other world bullion coins such as the Canadian Maple Leaf and the Chinese Panda. The Proof version, such as this 2018-W issue, is particularly desirable due to its flawless finish and limited mintage, making it a prized piece in any collection. The series itself is deeply rooted in American history, as it draws on the iconic design of the Buffalo Nickel, first issued in 1913 and created by the famous sculptor James Earle Fraser.
The obverse of the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo is a tribute to Fraser’s original Buffalo Nickel design, featuring a detailed portrait of a Native American chieftain. The portrait is a composite of three different Native American leaders that Fraser had encountered during his time in the American West. This evocative profile is known for its strong, dignified expression, representing the proud heritage of Native American tribes. The intricate detailing of the hair, the feathered headdress, and the chieftain's facial features are brought to life by the high-relief strike, which is enhanced by the brilliant proof finish. The proof process gives the coin its characteristic mirror-like background, which contrasts sharply with the frosted devices, creating an image that is as visually striking as it is historically significant. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above the chieftain’s head, while the date "2018" and the "W" mintmark, indicating the West Point Mint, are located below the neckline of the portrait.
The reverse of the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo is equally iconic, showcasing a powerful image of a buffalo, modeled after the famous animal known as Black Diamond. Black Diamond was a massive bison that resided in the Central Park Zoo in New York City during the early 20th century, and his likeness has since become one of the most enduring images in American coinage. The reverse design depicts Black Diamond standing on a small mound of earth, his strong, muscular form rendered with impressive detail. The texture of his fur, the slope of his back, and the powerful stance of the animal are all captured with exceptional clarity on the proof coin, bringing Fraser’s original vision to life. Surrounding the image of the buffalo are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" along the top, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left and right, and the denomination "ONE OUNCE .9999 FINE GOLD" at the bottom, indicating the coin’s weight and purity.
The 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo was struck at the West Point Mint, a facility that is renowned for producing the highest-quality bullion and proof coins for the United States Mint. West Point’s "W" mintmark is a symbol of excellence in modern American coinage, and proof coins from this mint are known for their precision and beauty. Proof coins are struck multiple times with specially prepared dies, which result in a flawless finish and sharp, well-defined features. The 2018 Proof Gold Buffalo is no exception, with its razor-sharp details and highly reflective surfaces setting it apart from the bullion version of the coin. The proof strike process elevates the artistry of the design, making it a sought-after piece for both numismatists and gold investors.
The mintage of the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo was limited to just 15,754 pieces, making it a relatively scarce coin in the series. This limited mintage adds to the coin’s collectibility, as lower-mintage proof coins are often more desirable due to their relative rarity. The First Strike designation from PCGS further enhances the coin’s appeal, as it indicates that this coin was among the first struck and released during the initial 30 days of production. First Strike coins are valued for their superior strike quality, as they are produced using fresh dies that impart sharper details onto the coin’s surface. The Black Diamond label, which refers to the buffalo that inspired the reverse design, adds another layer of historical significance, connecting the coin to the storied history of America’s frontier and wildlife.
Receiving a PR70 grade from PCGS, this 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo is in perfect condition, free from any visible imperfections, even under magnification. PR70 is the highest possible grade a proof coin can achieve, representing absolute perfection in terms of strike, surface condition, and overall appearance. Coins with this grade are highly sought after by collectors, as they represent the pinnacle of numismatic quality. The flawless surfaces of the coin, combined with the deep mirrors of the proof finish and the frosted devices, make the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo an exceptional piece in any collection. The perfect grade ensures that this coin will retain its value over time, especially given its limited mintage and prestigious designations.
The 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo, like all coins in the series, is composed of 24-karat gold, with a purity of .9999 fine gold. This level of purity makes the Gold Buffalo one of the purest gold coins issued by the United States Mint, and its weight of one troy ounce ensures that the coin has significant intrinsic value in addition to its numismatic appeal. Investors who value gold for its tangible wealth appreciate the purity and weight of the Gold Buffalo, while collectors prize its artistic and historical importance. The combination of high gold content, flawless proof finish, and limited mintage make the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo a standout in both the bullion and collector markets.
The Certified 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo PR70 PCGS Black Diamond First Strike is a remarkable example of modern American coinage. Its combination of historical design, artistic beauty, and investment-grade gold make it a must-have for serious collectors and investors alike. The perfect PR70 grade, coupled with the First Strike and Black Diamond designations, ensures that this coin will remain a prized piece for years to come. As part of the prestigious American Buffalo series, the 2018-W Proof Gold Buffalo continues the tradition of excellence in U.S. coinage, honoring the legacy of James Earle Fraser’s design while offering a perfect example of the U.S. Mint’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.