2008-W $10 Burnished Buffalo PCGS "Modern Numismatic Masterpieces/Sabin Auto" MS70
Year: 2008
Mint: West Point
Metal: 0.25 oz - .9999 Fine Gold (24 karat)
Designation: First-Year Fractional Burnished
Grade: MS70
Signature: Stephanie Sabin
A pinnacle of modern U.S. coinage, the 2008-W $10 Burnished Buffalo, certified MS70 by PCGS with the prestigious "Modern Numismatic Masterpieces" Stephanie Sabin Autograph label, is a collector’s masterpiece. Struck at the West Point Mint during the 2008 financial crisis, this quarter-ounce burnished coin has an ultra-low mintage of 13,125 and features a lustrous, satin-like finish with sharp, high-relief details. As part of the American Buffalo series’ first fractional offerings, its flawless execution and extreme rarity make it essential for serious numismatists seeking historical significance and exclusivity.
A Historic Crisis-Era Coin
Introduced in 2006, the American Buffalo series brought the U.S. Mint’s first 24-karat (.9999 fine) gold coin, reviving James Earle Fraser’s iconic 1913 Buffalo Nickel design. In 2008, amidst the Great Recession’s turmoil and gold prices soaring, the Mint released fractional denominations ($5, $10, $25, $50) in burnished and proof finishes. The $10 burnished Buffalo, struck at West Point with a “W” mintmark, saw a mere 13,125 coins produced due to metal shortages post-Lehman Brothers collapse. Released in July 2008, it sold out rapidly, often as part of a four-coin set, cementing its status as a rare crisis-era collectible.
The Prestige of the “W” Mint Mark
Bearing the “W” mintmark of the West Point Mint, this Burnished Buffalo signifies premium craftsmanship and scarcity. Burnished coins, struck on specially polished planchets for collectors, offer a distinct satin-like finish compared to bullion or proof issues. The “W” mintmark, combined with the coin’s low mintage and first-year fractional status, positions it as a highly coveted piece for numismatists focused on rarity and quality.
Iconic American Design
This coin reimagines James Earle Fraser’s Buffalo Nickel design in 24-karat gold, honoring America’s numismatic heritage.
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Obverse: A Native American profile, a composite of tribal leaders (possibly Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree), faces right with a detailed feathered headdress. Inscriptions include “LIBERTY” above, “2008” to the left, the “W” mintmark below, and Fraser’s “F” initial near the neck. The burnished finish delivers a satin-like luster with sharp, high-relief details, accentuating the portrait’s textures.
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Reverse: An American buffalo, inspired by Black Diamond from the Central Park Zoo, stands on a mound. Inscriptions read “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “$10,” and “1/4 OZ. .9999 FINE GOLD.” The burnished finish enhances the bison’s rugged form against lustrous fields, highlighting intricate details.
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Edge: Reeded, complementing the coin’s refined aesthetic.
The burnished finish elevates Fraser’s design, offering a crisp, matte-like sheen that showcases the Native American and bison in stunning clarity.
Certified Perfection with “Modern Numismatic Masterpieces” Label Autographed by Stephanie Sabin
Graded MS70 by PCGS, this coin achieves flawless perfection, with no imperfections under magnification and pristine high-relief details against lustrous fields. The "Modern Numismatic Masterpieces" Stephanie Sabin Autograph label adds significant prestige, recognizing the coin’s superior quality and historical importance. The .9999 fine gold surface radiates clarity, making this coin a standout for discerning collectors.
