The American Gold Buffalo contains exactly 1 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold — the first 24-karat gold coin ever produced by the US Mint. Introduced in 2006, its design is based on James Earle Fraser's classic 1913 Buffalo nickel (Type I), featuring a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
The Buffalo was created in response to investor demand for a US-minted .9999 pure gold coin to compete with the Canadian Maple Leaf. Unlike the 22-karat Gold Eagle, the Buffalo's pure gold composition means it weighs exactly 1.0000 oz (31.1035 grams) with no alloy metals added.
Premiums on Gold Buffalos are typically 4-7% over spot — slightly higher than Gold Eagles due to their .9999 purity and collector appeal. The coin is IRA-eligible. Because it's pure 24-karat gold, it's softer and more susceptible to scratching than the alloyed Gold Eagle. The 2008-W is the key date of the series. Only the 1 oz size is produced — there are no fractional Buffalo coins.
Bullion dates trade at 4-7% over spot. The 2008-W is the key date. Proof versions carry strong premiums. Only available in 1 oz size.