The 2013 reverse proof Gold Buffalo is one of the most notable modern U.S. gold coin issues because it was released to commemorate the centennial of James Earle Fraser’s Buffalo Nickel design from 1913. Unlike regular proof coins, a reverse proof flips the standard finish by making the fields matte/frosted and the design elements shiny, creating a striking visual effect prized by collectors.
This issue was struck only in 2013, making it unique in the American Gold Buffalo series and significantly more collectible than standard proof or bullion strikes.
🪙 Key Features
Gold Content & Purity:
Contains 1 troy ounce of .9999 fine (24-karat) gold, the maximum purity used by the U.S. Mint for collector gold coins.
Reverse Proof Finish:
Reverse proof — frosted background with mirror-like devices (design elements), offering a rare and attractive contrast. This finish is less common than traditional proof and bullion finishes.
Mint Mark:
“W” — produced at the West Point Mint.
Design:
Obverse: Native American profile adapted from Fraser’s original 1913 Buffalo Nickel.
Reverse: American bison (“buffalo”), reflecting the classic imagery and often associated with the bison Black Diamond, once housed at the Central Park Zoo.
Legal Tender:
$50 U.S. face value, backed by the full faith of the U.S. government (though its gold and collectible value far exceed face value).
Dimensions:
Standard 1 oz modern gold coin specs — ~32.7 mm diameter and ~2.95 mm thickness.
📊 Collector Appeal
Centennial Commemoration:
Issued specifically to celebrate 100 years of the Buffalo design — making it historically significant and a standout piece in the Buffalo series.
Rarity & Demand:
Reverse proof gold coins are produced in far lower numbers than standard proofs or bullion, which boosts desirability among collectors.
Display Quality:
The unique reverse proof finish offers exceptional visual contrast that enhances display value.
Market Presence:
Certified examples (often graded PF-70 or similar) are widely traded in the numismatic market due to both collectible interest and gold content. Listings often show these coins selling at notable secondary market prices.
📌 Mintage
Mintage Figures:
The combined mintage for all 2013 reverse proof Buffalo coins is reported around 47,836 total — relatively limited compared to regular bullion issues.
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