2009 (W) Proof American Buffalo .9999 Fine Gold Fifty Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,520 PR70DCAM 08-29-2020 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 2009 (W) Proof American Buffalo .9999 Fine Gold Fifty Dollar is a proof gold coin struck at the West Point Mint, part of the American Buffalo Gold 2006 to Date series. With a mintage of 49,306, this is a scarce issue — the lower-mintage of the two mint variants. The obverse features a composite Native American portrait combining features of three real tribal chiefs — Iron Tail (Lakota), Two Moons (Cheyenne), and John Big Tree (Seneca) — James Earle Fraser's iconic 1913 design faithfully reproduced in gold and the reverse displays an American bison (often called Black Diamond after the famous bison at the Bronx Zoo) standing on a mound, also from Fraser's original design. A modern issue from an era of rotating coin designs, collector-focused programs, and renewed interest in numismatic artistry. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the West Point Mint, originally a bullion depository that became a full coin production facility, specializing in commemorative and bullion issues. Estimated market value is approximately $5.2K. Struck in 99.99% gold, weighing 31.11 grams, 32.7 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #414463.