Posted 14 years ago
iansplanet
(2 items)
Having watched various auction sites and seen the frenzy of activity over the low mintage 2008w $50 gold buffalo, I thought I would add to the cacophony of writers about these coins. I have not seen this coin offered for sale in any auction. I have seen mint reports that only 3000 or so proofs were produced in 2008 and I believe this refers to the coin I bought from the mint. I have not had it graded, but surely a mint coin of this value and rarity would grade out, as I have often read about mint issues, as a 69 or 70, and having examined it under an 18x loupe, I find no knicks, bag marks, or other detracting features. It has beautiful luster, stunning eye appeal, and has never been handled by human hands not in gloves or with the coin not in its original protective covering. I cannot claim foresight in buying it as to its meteoric rise in value over what I paid the Mint. It was a beautiful coin that I wanted when gold was just about the price of the Mint’s product. And I was blessed enough to have saved and been able to buy it. I was also lucky when my house was burglarized by burglars looking for something else to have them overlook this coin and another $50 gold eagle that were in plain view beside the items they stole from me. They did steal other gold coins, but nothing like this. I write not to brag but to see if anyone else out there has any info or stories regarding this coin. It is almost impossible to find info on it. I had to search the mint archives to get some, then follow leads there to get the rest of what little I have. I must admit I do laugh when I see the prices for the standard gold buffalo produced by the mint that year and sold to most of the public. It only encourages me about the value mine would bring if I took it out of the safety deposit box where it now resides. I really appreciate collectors weekly’s site that allows free communication to all collectors and those interested in coins (gone brain dead and can’t spell numismatist right now—yes, I can)
The celebration coin was made at west point, but does not bare the W mint mark. they see for around 1500.00
On Sept. 26, 2010 Heritage Auctions sold a proof example graded PCGS PR69 for $2,760 which included a buyers premium (Lot #12235). They also auctioned a few uncirculated versions graded NGC MS69 for between $1,324 and $1,380 which included a buyers premium.
Since I believe gold is up about 10% since Sept. 26, the coin would obviously sell for more now. Also, if your coin were to grade PR70, you could probably add about $900 to its value above the PR69 value.
If you bought yours in 2008, congratulations! Looking back, I wish I'd have bought one.