The United States Mint has released the 2025-W $50 Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin today at Noon ET, marking its second release of May. This stunning coin is minted from one ounce of .9999 fine 24-karat gold, continuing the American Buffalo series that first debuted in 2006.
The series, which was the Mint’s inaugural offering in this gold purity, includes both bullion and proof versions. Though both versions feature the same design elements, their finishes are distinct, with the proof coins showcasing frosted details set against mirror-like backgrounds.
While the bullion coins are primarily purchased as investments, with sales regularly reaching tens of thousands of ounces each year, collectors typically favor the proof versions. This year’s limited edition Proof Gold Buffalo coin has a mintage cap of 14,000, making it especially desirable among collectors.
Coin Designs and Specifications
The design of the American Buffalo Gold Coin draws inspiration from the 1913 Buffalo nickel Type 1, created by renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser. On the obverse (front), the coin features a detailed portrait of a Native American, while the reverse showcases a powerful image of an American buffalo.
Fraser crafted the Native American portrait using features from several different individuals. The obverse inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “2025,” the artist’s signature “F,” and the mintmark “W,” indicating the coin’s production at the U.S. Mint’s West Point facility.
The reverse, featuring the buffalo, is surrounded by the inscriptions: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “$50,” “1 OZ.,” and “.9999 FINE GOLD.”
Specifications
- Denomination: $50
- Finish: Proof
- Composition: 99.99% Gold
- Diameter: 1.287 inches (32.70 mm)
- Weight: 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams)
- Edge: Reeded
- Mint and Mint Mark: West Point – W
- Privy Mark: None
Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin Sales
Since the release of the 1-ounce Proof Gold Buffalo coin in 2006, its sales have varied each year, with the Mint occasionally adjusting pricing based on gold market fluctuations. Below is a table showing the opening prices and final unaudited sales for these coins over the years:
| Year of Issue | Opening Price | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 (June 13) | $3,240.00 | 9,709 (still available) |
| 2023 (April 13) | $2,940.00 | 15,911 |
| 2022 (May 12) | $2,790.00 | 15,943 |
| 2021 (May 14) | $2,740.00 | 16,976 |
| 2020 (April 9) | $2,315.00 | 11,887 |
| 2019 (April 12) | $1,660.00 | 14,844 |
| 2018 (May 10) | $1,710.00 | 15,756 |
| 2017 (May 11) | $1,590.00 | 15,810 |
| 2016 (March 31) | $1,590.00 | 21,878 |
| 2015 (April 9) | $1,590.00 | 16,591 |
| 2014 (May 8) | $1,640.00 | 20,557 |
| 2013 (May 23) | $1,790.00 | 18,594 |
| 2012 (March 15) | $1,960.00 | 19,715 |
| 2011 (May 19) | $1,760.00 | 28,683 |
| 2010 (June 3) | $1,510.00 | 49,263 |
| 2009 (Oct 29) | $1,360.00 | 49,306 |
| 2008 (July 22) | $1,199.95 | 18,863 |
| 2007 (May 23) | $825.95 | 58,998 |
| 2006 (June 22) | $800.00 | 246,267 |
Over the years, the U.S. Mint has also released different versions of the Gold Buffalo coins, including fractional sizes and reverse proofs.
Ordering Information
The 2025-W $50 Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin is available for direct purchase from the U.S. Mint via its official website.
The initial price is set at $4,240, based on gold prices ranging from $3,300.00 to $3,349.99 per ounce. As with all U.S. Mint gold products, the price may adjust weekly based on changes in the market.
FAQs
What makes the 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin different from the bullion version?
The primary difference between the proof and bullion versions of the American Buffalo Gold Coin is their finish. The proof coin features frosted design elements with a mirror-like background, while the bullion coin has a more standard, matte finish. The proof coins are also typically favored by collectors due to their high-quality appearance.
Why is the 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin so limited in mintage?
The 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin has a limited mintage of only 14,000 coins, making it more exclusive and highly sought after. Limited mintage coins are often produced to maintain their rarity and appeal to collectors, making them a valuable addition to any collection.
Can I purchase the 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin directly from the U.S. Mint?
Yes, the 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin is available for direct purchase through the U.S. Mint’s official website. Orders are processed online, and the price of the coin may fluctuate weekly based on gold market conditions.
How does the price of the Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin change over time?
The price of the Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin is primarily based on the current market price of gold. It is subject to change weekly, depending on fluctuations in the price of gold, which influences the coin’s production cost and final retail price.