The American Gold Buffalo is widely recognized for its high gold purity and classic design from the United States Mint. First released in 2006, this series brought back the historic Buffalo Nickel artwork on modern 24-karat gold blanks. The Gold Buffalo remains the only coin struck annually by the U.S. Mint using .9999 pure gold. Today, collectors and investors can purchase the 2008-W American Buffalo 1/2 oz Gold Coin online from Provident Metals.

Highlights:

• Coins arrive in protective plastic capsules!
• 3rd year of issue for Gold Buffalos!
• Only year of issue with fractional-ounce coins!
• Total mintage of only 16,908 coins!
• Contains 1/2 troy oz of .9999 pure gold.
• Issued a face value of $25 (USD) by the United States.
• Obverse features an indigenous figure.
• Reverse includes an American bison.
• Burnished version of the Gold Buffalo.
• Includes a W mint mark from the West Point Mint.

Each 2008-W American Buffalo 1/2 oz Gold Coin is delivered in a protective plastic capsule. The burnished finish gives the coin a smooth, matte look. This appearance is created by polishing the gold blanks before striking. Each blank was then struck once under high pressure, resulting in a distinctive surface that differs from standard bullion finishes.

Obverse

The obverse of the 2008-W American Buffalo Gold Coin showcases the iconic Native American profile created by sculptor James Earle Fraser. Originally designed for the Buffalo Nickel in 1913, the image is a composite portrait based on three Native American leaders: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. Fraser aimed to create a respectful and lasting representation, which is reflected in the detailed hair, defined facial features, and calm expression. The inscriptions include LIBERTY, 2008, Fraser’s F initial, and the W mint mark.

Reverse

On the reverse, the 2008-W Buffalo 1/2 oz Gold Coin features Frasers well-known American bison design. The animal was modeled after Black Diamond, a buffalo that lived at the New York Central Park Zoo in the early 1900s. Shown standing on a raised mound, the bison appears strong and grounded. This design reflects the historical importance of the species and its role in American culture. The inscriptions read UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, IN GOD WE TRUST, $25, and 1/2 OZ .9999 FINE GOLD.

History

The 2008 release stands apart in the Gold Buffalo series due to its limited production options. It is the only year the U.S. Mint issued fractional sizes, including the 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz coins. Additionally, 2008 was the only year to feature a Burnished Gold Buffalo. The 1/2 oz burnished coin recorded the second-highest mintage of the burnished releases, with just 16,908 coins produced.

Ordering

Provident Metals’ customer service is available to assist with your gold purchase at 1-800-313-3315. Support is also available through our web chat and email services.