First Strike Gold Buffalo Coins

The United States Mint has commenced production of America's very first 24-karat, pure gold (.999% fineness) one-ounce coin, the American Buffalo. This beautiful coin, nicknamed "The Buffalo," is based upon American sculptor James Earle Fraser's revered Buffalo Nickel of 1913. The Buffalo displays Fraser's classic design of an American Indian on the obverse and the renown American bison on the reverse. These coins measure 1.287 inches (32.7 mm) in diameter and are slightly larger and thicker than the Kennedy Half-Dollar.

A select number of these coins will enjoy the prestigious designation of being a "First Strike" certified coin. First Strike coins represent those coins that are minted no later than 30 days from the official release date. These First Strike American Buffalos will be independently graded and certified by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), one of the nation's most reputable grading services.

First Strike coins are numismatic coins.

Numismatic Coins are valued based on its rarity, age, quantity originally produced, and condition. These coins are bought and sold as individual items within the coin collecting community. Most numismatic coins are legal tender coins that were produced in limited quantities to give them scarcity value. They are historic coins which also can be rare. The current price of gold is a minor factor when dealing with numismatic coins. Premiums are traditionally far higher than those of Bullion Coins, and values fluctuate to a much wider extent. For example, a $5 gold piece may contain $60 worth of gold and may sell for as much as $700. The minimum amount recovered from numismatic coin investments is always either its face value or its metal content. Most coins, however, sell substantially above these amounts. Since the markup over bullion value can vary widely from one dealer to another, investors need to shop around diligently to avoid paying exorbitant markups.