2013 1 oz Gold Buffalo Reverse Proof – PCGS PR69

The 2013 1 oz Gold Buffalo Reverse Proof is one of the most celebrated modern numismatic releases from the United States Mint. Issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Buffalo Nickel (1913–2013), this special edition coin features a Reverse Proof finish, making it distinctively different from the standard Proof and bullion versions. The frosted background combined with mirror-like raised devices enhances James Earle Fraser’s classic American designs with remarkable depth and contrast.

Certified by PCGS as PR69, this coin exhibits near-perfect surfaces, strong cameo definition, and exceptional eye appeal. PCGS encapsulation ensures long-term protection, authenticity, and premium market desirability.

Coin Highlights

• Contains 1 oz of .9999 fine Gold
• PCGS PR69 Reverse Proof
• Commemorative release honoring the 100th anniversary of the Buffalo Nickel
• Obverse: Native American portrait by James Earle Fraser
• Reverse: American buffalo adapted from the classic 1913 design
• Guaranteed by the United States government

A Tribute to a Century of American Coinage

Released exclusively in 2013, the Reverse Proof Gold Buffalo was created to honor the centennial legacy of the original Buffalo Nickel, first introduced in 1913. James Earle Fraser’s artwork has remained one of the most iconic and beloved designs in U.S. minting history, representing both the heritage of Native American culture and the spirit of the American West.

The Gold Buffalo series itself, originally launched in 2006, became the first .9999 fine Gold coin ever struck by the United States Mint, immediately establishing it as a premium choice for collectors and investors. The Reverse Proof 2013 issue carries forward this prestige while commemorating one of the most historically significant coin designs of the 20th century.

Reverse Proof Finish

While standard Proof coins feature frosted design elements atop highly polished fields, Reverse Proofs invert this effect—creating:

• Mirror-like devices
• Frosted fields
• Bold, dramatic contrasts

This specialized finish highlights Fraser’s designs with enhanced clarity, particularly noticeable in the facial features of the Native American portrait and the muscular definition of the American buffalo.

The result is a visually striking collectible prized by numismatists for its elegance and rarity within the Gold Buffalo series.

Obverse

The obverse showcases Fraser’s iconic portrait of a Native American chief, adapted from his composite sketches of several tribal leaders. First featured on the 1913 Buffalo Nickel, this timeless profile has become one of the most recognized images in U.S. numismatic art.

Reverse

The reverse displays the powerful American buffalo, a faithful adaptation of the original Buffalo Nickel reverse. According to numismatic tradition, the design is widely believed to be modeled after Black Diamond, a famous buffalo that lived in New York’s Central Park Zoo during the early 20th century.

Both designs carry deep historical and cultural significance, representing America’s frontier heritage and the importance of wildlife conservation.

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