Numismatic

2008-W 1/2 oz Gold Buffalo MS-70 NGC

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In 2008, the United States Mint released a special half-ounce version of its popular Gold Buffalo series. This particular release holds a unique place in numismatic history, as it represents the only year the government produced fractional sizes of these pure gold coins. Struck at the West Point Mint, the piece carries the distinctive "W" mint mark, signifying its origin. The front of the coin showcases a profile of a Native American, a design that pays homage to the classic 1913 Buffalo Nickel created by James Earle Fraser. The word "LIBERTY" is clearly inscribed along the upper right edge, accompanied by the year 2008 and the mint mark. On the reverse, a massive American bison stands in profile. This depiction is based on Black Diamond, a famous bison who resided in New York City's Central Park Zoo during the early years of the twentieth century. Surrounding this majestic animal are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and "IN GOD WE TRUST". The bottom of the coin denotes its weight, purity, and face value, reading "1/2 OZ. 0.9999 FINE GOLD" alongside "$25".