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The Certified Proof Gold Buffalo 2013-W PR70 PCGS Hall Signature is a superbly struck modern gold coin that combines the purity and artistry of early American coinage with the highest standards of modern minting. Issued by the United States Mint and struck at the West Point Mint, this coin is part of the American Buffalo Gold series, the first .9999 fine (24-karat) gold coin ever produced by the U.S. government. Bearing the "W" mintmark to signify its West Point origin and certified PR70 by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), this coin is in perfect proof condition, accompanied by the prestigious signature of PCGS founder David Hall on the label.
Authorized by the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005, the American Buffalo Gold series was launched in 2006 to provide investors and collectors with a 24-karat gold alternative to the 22-karat American Gold Eagle. The program was inspired by the enduring appeal of James Earle Fraser's Buffalo Nickel design, first minted in 1913, and the Gold Buffalo coins have carried this beloved design faithfully ever since. The 2013-W Proof Gold Buffalo continues this tradition, featuring a stunning mirror-like proof finish and a design steeped in American heritage.
The obverse of the 2013-W Gold Buffalo displays the profile of a Native American chief, a composite based on several Native American models including Chief Iron Tail and Chief Two Moons. Fraser’s intent was to portray a noble and authentic portrait of the original inhabitants of North America. The obverse includes the word “LIBERTY” inscribed to the right rim, the year “2013” in relief on the shoulder of the portrait, and the “W” mintmark just beneath the date. The finely polished proof surfaces bring exquisite detail to the chief’s braided hair, the texture of the feathers, and the strong facial features.
The reverse features a majestic American bison standing on a mound, inspired by Black Diamond, a bison once housed at the Central Park Zoo in New York. Above the bison are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Beneath the mound appear the words “IN GOD WE TRUST,” followed by the coin’s specifications: “$50,” “1 OZ.,” and “.9999 FINE GOLD.” The proof finish highlights the intricate detailing of the bison’s shaggy fur, muscular stance, and powerful presence, all set against a deeply mirrored background that enhances contrast and beauty.
Struck in 24-karat gold, the 2013-W Gold Buffalo weighs one troy ounce and measures 32.7 millimeters in diameter. It was struck multiple times on specially prepared planchets using polished dies to produce the signature proof finish, which features frosted devices and reflective fields. The proof format is reserved for collectors and is typically produced in smaller quantities than the bullion versions, ensuring a higher degree of rarity and appeal for those seeking investment-grade numismatic material.
The 2013 Proof Gold Buffalo had a final mintage of 18,594 coins, making it one of the lower-mintage entries in the proof Buffalo series. While not the rarest year, it remains a scarce and sought-after edition. Coins that survive in perfect PR70 condition, such as this example, represent only a fraction of the total struck, adding a layer of exclusivity and long-term desirability. PCGS’s PR70 grade guarantees flawless surfaces with no visible imperfections, a razor-sharp strike, and fully mirrored fields—the pinnacle of quality in modern proof coinage.
This particular coin is encapsulated in a secure, tamper-evident PCGS holder with a custom signature label signed by David Hall, a co-founder of PCGS and a key figure in the development of third-party coin grading. Hall’s signature label adds value and collectibility to the coin, appealing to those who appreciate the intersection of numismatic authority and elite certification. It also provides further verification of authenticity and grade for peace of mind among investors and collectors alike.
The significance of the Gold Buffalo series lies not just in its design and gold purity, but also in its role as a competitor to international 24-karat gold coins like the Canadian Maple Leaf and Austrian Philharmonic. The American Buffalo offers a uniquely U.S. design with superior strike quality, exceptional finish, and guaranteed purity by the U.S. government. As a legal tender coin with a face value of $50, it carries a full government guarantee, though its actual value far exceeds its denomination based on its gold content and numismatic merit.
The 2013-W PR70 Gold Buffalo is especially attractive for those building registry sets or themed collections focusing on 24-karat gold, early 21st-century numismatics, or iconic American designs. It is also a strong addition for those seeking legacy pieces in pristine condition, combining tangible wealth with historical and artistic depth. The flawless preservation and prestigious Hall signature create an added layer of appeal that transcends the coin’s bullion content alone.
In conclusion, the Certified Proof Gold Buffalo 2013-W PR70 PCGS Hall Signature is a premier modern gold coin, offering the highest purity, a beloved historic design, and perfect technical execution. Its status as a low-mintage proof, struck at West Point and certified by PCGS in top grade with a Hall signature label, makes it an ideal acquisition for discerning collectors and long-term investors. This coin stands as a modern masterpiece that encapsulates the spirit, artistry, and enduring value of American numismatics.