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- Product ID: 53039
The Certified 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo, graded PR70 by PCGS with the prestigious Black Diamond First Strike designation, is a perfect example of modern American numismatics and a testament to the craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint. The Gold Buffalo series, introduced in 2006, was the first U.S. coin to be struck in .9999 fine 24-karat gold, providing collectors and investors with an ultra-pure gold option. The Proof version of the coin, like this 2019-W issue, is especially prized for its superior finish and impeccable design details. As part of the ongoing Gold Buffalo series, the 2019 Proof Gold Buffalo continues to uphold the legacy of one of America's most beloved coin designs, the Buffalo Nickel, which was first struck in 1913. The creation of the Gold Buffalo series was part of the U.S. Mint’s effort to compete with internationally renowned gold bullion coins such as the Canadian Maple Leaf and South African Krugerrand.
The obverse of the 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo features James Earle Fraser’s iconic depiction of a Native American chieftain, a design that originally appeared on the Buffalo Nickel. The Native American portrait is a composite, drawn from the facial features of three different tribal leaders that Fraser met during his time in the American West. The profile is detailed and realistic, capturing the strength, wisdom, and dignity of America’s indigenous peoples. On this proof coin, the Native American’s headdress and facial features are rendered with incredible clarity, thanks to the high-relief strike and the polished proof finish. Above the portrait, the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed, while the year "2019" appears near the bottom, along with the "W" mintmark, which indicates that the coin was struck at the West Point Mint. The obverse design is complemented by the brilliant, mirror-like background that contrasts beautifully with the frosted devices, adding depth and visual appeal to the coin.
The reverse of the 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo is equally captivating, featuring the iconic image of a bison, which was modeled after a real buffalo named Black Diamond. Black Diamond was a prominent attraction at the Central Park Zoo in New York City during the early 20th century, and his likeness has become one of the most recognizable designs in American coinage. The buffalo is depicted standing on a small mound of dirt, with its powerful form expertly detailed down to the texture of its fur and the contours of its body. Above the buffalo, the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" curves along the top of the coin, while the denomination "ONE OUNCE .9999 FINE GOLD" is displayed at the bottom, highlighting the coin’s weight and purity. The national mottoes "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" are also prominently featured on the reverse, adding to the coin’s patriotic symbolism. Like the obverse, the reverse design benefits from the proof finish, with the frosted bison standing out against the highly reflective background.
The 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo was struck at the West Point Mint, a facility known for producing the U.S. Mint’s highest-quality collector coins. West Point’s reputation for precision and quality is well-earned, as its coins are consistently among the best examples of modern numismatic art. The "W" mintmark on the obverse of the coin signifies its West Point origin, which is particularly valued by collectors. Proof coins like this one are struck multiple times with specially prepared dies, resulting in a coin with razor-sharp details, a flawless finish, and a striking visual contrast between the raised design elements and the mirrored fields. The Proof Gold Buffalo is minted in far fewer quantities than the regular bullion version, adding to its scarcity and desirability among collectors.
The 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo had a mintage of just 14,844 pieces, making it one of the more limited issues in the series. This relatively low mintage adds to the coin’s allure, especially for those who value both the intrinsic gold content and the numismatic rarity of the coin. The First Strike designation from PCGS means that this coin was among the first coins struck and shipped within the first 30 days of release. First Strike coins are often sought after by collectors for their exceptional strike quality, as they tend to be struck from fresh dies that produce sharper, more detailed images. This particular example also comes with the Black Diamond label, which refers to the famous buffalo that inspired the reverse design, further enhancing the coin’s collectability and historical significance.
The PR70 grade from PCGS is the highest possible grade for a proof coin, indicating that the coin is in perfect condition with no visible imperfections, even under magnification. Proof coins graded PR70 are the pinnacle of numismatic quality, representing the very best that the U.S. Mint has to offer. This flawless condition, combined with the stunning proof finish, makes the 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo a standout piece in any collection. The mirrored fields and frosted design elements create a striking contrast that emphasizes the beauty and detail of Fraser’s design, while the perfect PR70 grade ensures that the coin will retain its value and appeal over time.
As a 24-karat gold coin, the 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo is composed of .9999 fine gold, making it one of the purest gold coins issued by the United States Mint. The coin contains one troy ounce of gold, providing significant intrinsic value in addition to its numismatic appeal. The high gold purity is a major selling point for both collectors and investors, as 24-karat gold is widely regarded as the standard for bullion products. However, the Proof Gold Buffalo goes beyond being a simple bullion coin, as its limited mintage, perfect grade, and historical design make it a desirable piece for those who appreciate both the beauty and value of gold.
The Certified 2019-W Proof Gold Buffalo PR70 PCGS Black Diamond First Strike is a truly remarkable coin that combines flawless craftsmanship, historical significance, and investment-grade gold. The perfect PR70 grade, along with the First Strike and Black Diamond designations, elevates this coin above other modern gold issues, making it a prized addition to any collection. As part of the Gold Buffalo series, the 2019 Proof Gold Buffalo carries forward the legacy of one of America’s most iconic coin designs, while offering the purity and quality that today’s collectors and investors demand. This coin is a testament to the enduring appeal of American numismatics and the timeless beauty of James Earle Fraser’s design.