Gold Buffalo

Despite its name that might allude to an older release, the American Gold Buffalo is actually one of the most modern gold coins on the market today. With its initial release coming in 2006 by the United States Mint, it has a relatively short tenure on the secondary markets. With that said, the Gold Buffalo is one of the most popular and in demand coins in both the US and around the world.

For the first year of production, Gold Buffalos were minted only in 1 ounce sizes. From 2007 forward, however, fractional sizes were also introduced. These coins were made available in 1/10, 1/4, and 1/2 ounce varieties, falling in line with most other mass produced gold coins. The face value of these coins is $50 at one ounce, $25 for 1/2 ounce, $10 for 1/4 ounce and $5 for 1/10 ounce.

The Gold Buffalo is perhaps most notorious for the amount of replicas and copies that have been introduced by private mints since its release. The replica coins are not actually made entirely of pure gold like true Gold Buffalos, and instead they are minted with just a thin coating across the face of the coin. These types of Gold Buffalos are nothing more than cheap knock-offs of the real thing and should be avoided completely. Make sure that any Gold Buffalo you are considering buying is actually stamped with the official markings of the US Mint, that it is .999 gold and is weighted at the correct amount.

Gold Buffalo Design

The design of the Gold Buffalo coin is very easy to recognize and is one of the most aestechically appealing items on the market today. A massive American Indian Head is featured on the obverse side of all Buffalo coins. This side of the coin also includes the year of mintage as well as the word "Liberty" emblazoned across the top right corner of the coin.

The reverse side of this coin is what it is best known for and is a depiction of its namesake, featuring a sizable Buffalo rearing its head. The dominant Buffalo appears ready for battle and is illustrated from the side. The reverse of all Gold Buffalos also indicate the weight of the coin, the currency value, "In God We Trust" and "United States of America" lining the top.

Cost of Gold Buffalos

Most uncirulated Gold Buffalos can be obtained for less than $100 over spot. The actual pricing of the coin will depend, at least in part, on the year of release and of course the size of the coin. Though they are not priced at an especially high rate, you may find that locating this coin is a moderate challenge. Because of their collectible appeal, the coin is often difficult to find for sale. The best chance of obtaining this coin is found in the most current release.

If you would like to spend a fair amount more on a Buffalo, your other options include graded and proof editions. The proof Buffalo coins are exceedingly rare and will cost at least a few hundred dollars over spot. Many graded coins, on the other hand, can be purchased for very reasonable prices. If only for the reason of verifying authenticity, graded coins are a very sound option when deciding which type of Buffalo coin to buy.

Buying Gold Buffalos Online

As mentioned earlier, you need to be aware of the different replica Gold Buffalo coins that are for sale by various outlets, both on TV, on the radio, and on the internet. The safest way to ensure that you are buying the real thing is to order exclusively from highly reputable coin and bullion dealers, including those that you will find listed on this site.

If you are interested in buying a Buffalo but are not sure what to look for in authentic item, or if you would simply like to put all doubt to rest, the easiest thing to do is to buy a graded gold Buffalo. Many graded Buffalos can be had for a price that is not much more than what you would expect for regular uncirculated coins.

Gold Buffalos can be found in some coin shops, but as usual, shopping for these issues is most ideal via online dealers. Since they have only been around for a few years and are minted in relatively low quantities, online gold websites will be your best bet for a sound dealer, and most importantly, an authentic coin.