The second release from the U.S. Mint for May is the 2025-W $50 Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin, which goes on sale today at Noon ET. Made with one ounce of .9999 pure 24-karat gold, this coin series started in 2006 as the Mint’s first high-purity coin.
It is available in both bullion and proof styles. Although they have the same artwork, their finishes are different, with proof coins offering a more polished, collector-friendly look.
2025-W $50 Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin – Obverse and Reverse
Bullion versions of the coin are sold in large numbers every year, mainly as investment pieces. In the first four months of this year, sales reached 80,500 ounces. Proof versions like the one launching today are usually favored by collectors for their beautiful frosted images and mirror-like finish.
This year’s coin has a mintage limit of only 14,000, which adds to its appeal among serious numismatists who want something rare and visually stunning.
Coin Designs and Specifications
The American Buffalo gold coin design comes from the 1913 Buffalo nickel Type 1, designed by artist James Earle Fraser. The front (obverse) shows a Native American’s face, and the back (reverse) shows an American bison. The artist used a mix of features from real Native American leaders for the face.
On the front, you’ll see “LIBERTY,” the date “2025,” the mintmark “W,” and the letter “F” for Fraser. The back includes “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “$50,” “1 OZ.,” and “.9999 FINE GOLD.”
American Buffalo Gold Coin Specifications
- Denomination: $50
- Finish: Proof
- Composition: 99.99% Gold
- Diameter: 1.287 inches (32.70 mm)
- Weight: 1.0000 troy ounce (31.103 grams)
- Edge: Reeded
- Mint and Mint Mark: West Point – W
- Privy Mark: None
Sales of Proof American Buffalo Gold Coins
Below is a table that shows how much these coins cost when they were first sold and how many were purchased (final numbers may change). This includes proof versions of the 1-ounce Gold Buffalo since it was first introduced back in 2006.
| Year of Issue | Opening Price | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $3,240.00 | 9,709 (still available) |
| 2023 | $2,940.00 | 15,911 |
| 2022 | $2,790.00 | 15,943 |
| 2021 | $2,740.00 | 16,976 |
| 2020 | $2,315.00 | 11,887 |
| 2019 | $1,660.00 | 14,844 |
| 2018 | $1,710.00 | 15,756 |
| 2017 | $1,590.00 | 15,810 |
| 2016 | $1,590.00 | 21,878 |
| 2015 | $1,590.00 | 16,591 |
| 2014 | $1,640.00 | 20,557 |
| 2013 | $1,790.00 | 18,594 |
| 2012 | $1,960.00 | 19,715 |
| 2011 | $1,760.00 | 28,683 |
| 2010 | $1,510.00 | 49,263 |
| 2009 | $1,360.00 | 49,306 |
| 2008 | $1,199.95 | 18,863 |
| 2007 | $825.95 | 58,998 |
| 2006 | $800.00 | 246,267 |
In past years, the Mint has also sold other versions of the Gold Buffalo, including smaller sizes and special reverse proof coins, which featured a reversed finish from the regular proof versions.
Ordering
The new 2025-W $50 Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin can be ordered straight from the U.S. Mint’s official website on their gold coin section. The starting price is $4,240, which is based on the average gold price being between $3,300.00 and $3,349.99 per ounce.
Like all other gold coins sold by the Mint, the price can change every week, depending on how the gold market moves. Collectors are encouraged to buy early due to the limited mintage.
Last Thought
The 2025-W $50 Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin continues a long tradition of honoring America’s past with high-quality, beautifully crafted gold coins. With its rich design rooted in early 20th-century coinage and a limited mintage, this proof coin stands out as a prized addition for collectors and gold investors alike.
As gold prices continue to shift and demand remains strong, this coin offers both historical value and potential financial appeal. For anyone passionate about U.S. Mint releases or fine gold coins, the 2025-W Proof Buffalo is one worth considering.
FAQs
What makes the 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coin different from the bullion version?
The proof version features frosted design details with a mirror-like background, while the bullion coin has a matte finish and is made mainly for investment purposes.
Why is the 2025-W coin more expensive than past years?
The price depends on current gold market rates. For 2025, gold is priced higher, raising the initial cost of the coin to $4,240.
How many 2025-W Proof Gold Buffalo coins are being made?
Only 14,000 of the 2025-W Proof American Buffalo Gold Coins will be minted, making it a limited edition release.
Where can I buy the 2025-W Gold Buffalo Proof coin?
You can buy it directly from the U.S. Mint’s website under their gold coins section. It’s available online starting at Noon ET on release day.
