2006-W $50 Gold Buffalo Coin

The 2006-W 1 oz Gold Buffalo Coin was struck at the West Point Mint. It had a total mintage of just over 246,000. This coin is a Proof coin that can be found in many grades including a perfect Proof 70, although it will command a small premium at this Proof grade. This was the first year of issue of this coin in Proof grade and regular strike, uncirculated grade. The Buffalo coin is a popular coin that initially had a legal tender of $50 that quickly skyrocketed in value with the rapid rise in gold prices, 

 

History of the 2006-W 1 oz Gold Buffalo Coin

The 2006-W American Buffalo Gold Coin features the ‘W’ mint mark on the obverse of the coin behind the Indian Chief’s head. A mint mark was common practice for Proof coins, and regular strike coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint typically didn’t feature a mint mark. The Gold Buffalo was designed by James Earle Fraser, and it was a modified design of the Type 1 Indian Head Nickel. This design is typically touted as one of the best designs of any U.S. coin. The obverse of the coin features a Native American Chief. Fraser said he used sketches from three different Chiefs to create this image. The reverse of the coin shows a full sketch of a bison standing on a mound. 

 

2006-W $50 Buffalo Gold Coin Value

The 2006-W $50 Gold Buffalo coin value ranges from around $3,000 to $6,000 for the highest Proof grades of the coin. It is well-worth the effort to find this special coin with a sharp strike and attractive surfaces. The 2006-W 1 oz Gold Buffalo would make an excellent addition to any Gold Buffalo coin series collection. 

 

Type of coin: .9999 Fine Gold

Year: 2006-W $50 Gold Buffalo Coin

$50 Gold Buffalo Coin Mint Mark: West Point

Total mintage: 246,267

Metal content: 99.99% Gold

Face value: Fifty Dollars

Weight: 31.11 grams

Edge: Reeded

Designer: James Earle Fraser

Diameter: 32.70 millimeters