2010 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin

2010 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin, Obverse (2009 version shown) - Click to Enlarge

Not surprising for a gold coin from the US Mint, the designs found on the American Buffalo Gold Coins are based on originals found on a coin that many consider to be one of the most beautiful ever produced by the Mint. In this case, the early 20th century nickel designed by James Earle Fraser commonly known as the "Indian Head Nickel" or the "Buffalo Nickel."

These gold coins were first authorized by the Presidential Coin Act of 2005 for an initial appearance in 2006. They have appeared annually since, however, there was some speculation as to whether they would appear in 2009. The coins were not minted for a majority of that year as the Mint stated all available gold was being utilized for the American Eagle Gold Bullion Coins which the Mint is required to produce to meet demand.

Finally, to relief of collectors, the Mint announced in October of 2009 that gold proof Buffalos dated that year would be struck after all and became available on the 29th of that month. In the coins first four days of availability, an astonishing 19,468 were sold.

American Gold Buffalo Proof Coin Design

American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin, Reverse (2009 version shown) - Click to Enlarge

Both the obverse and reverse designs for the American Gold Buffalo Coin were originally found on James Earle Fraser's (1876-1953) early 20th century nickel commonly known as either the "Indian Head Nickel" or the "Buffalo Nickel."

Obverse design: A profile of a Native American is found on the obverse. Fraser reportedly used three different Indian Chiefs as models for the design. The obverse also includes the inscription "LIBERTY" in front of the portrait's forehead and the date is shown on the shoulder.

Reverse design: An image of an American Bison (commonly called a buffalo) is featured on the reverse of the coin along with the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "IN GOD WE TRUST," "$50" and "1 OZ. .9999 FINE GOLD."

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