The Gold American Buffalo coin owes its existence to the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005. The U.S. Mint began producing the coins in 2006, marking the first time the Mint ever made a 24 karat gold coin (.9999 fine).
Each year, the U.S. Mint produces circulating bullion versions of the coin, plus a limited number of "Proof" coins, known for their mirror-like finish and exceptional quality. A small number of these proof coins achieves a perfect score of Proof 70 from one of the main grading services (PGCS or NGC).