Numismatic

2008-W 1/10 oz Gold Buffalo MS-70 PCGS (FS)

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In 2008, the United States Mint produced a fractional version of its signature pure gold series, striking a one-tenth ounce coin with a face value of five dollars. This issue represents a historic milestone for the nation's coinage, as this specific series marked the very first time the United States Mint struck coins using 0.9999 fine gold. Backed by the United States government, this coin combines exceptional purity with one of the most celebrated designs in American numismatic history. The imagery on this coin is a direct adaptation of the famous Buffalo Nickel, originally created by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The obverse presents a powerful, detailed portrait of a Native American facing right, accompanied by the inscription of the word LIBERTY, the year 2008, and the W mintmark. Fraser's design is celebrated for its strength and character, capturing a timeless representation of early America. The reverse depicts a magnificent American bison standing in profile. Numismatic tradition suggests this illustration was modeled after Black Diamond, a famous buffalo who lived in the Central Park Zoo during the early twentieth century. The design features the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the weight and purity designation of $5 1/10 OZ 0.9999 FINE GOLD. This particular specimen has been certified in perfect Mint State 70 condition, preserving every detail of Fraser's iconic artwork.