We've been through this so many times that it makes me wonder why I keep doing it, except for the fact that I have a collection in process.
I've made a ton of money on straight bullion but I've given a significant chunk of it back in terms of collector premiums, grading fees, and auction fees on coins other than straight bullion. This doesn't speak well of the way that the coin collecting industry is structured.
A price of 7K or 10K is obscene to the max, especially when spot gold is what, $4,800?
In my view, the only comeback to this situation is to either buy 2 or 3 individual coins and keep them in the box until the dust settles, or to use that money to buy straight bullion and to scrap the whole idea of a collection.
Q: Are You Printing Money? Bernanke: Not Literally
@safari_dude said:
I have all the proofs in PCGS 2006 through 2022 in signed 70 DCAM Mercanti slabs, and then 2023-2025 UC 70’s in NGC slabs with Mercanti signatures. Purchase prices have ranged from $2000 to $6995. Looks like to continue the set with a signed Mercanti 70UC (apparently Mercanti is exclusive with NGC now) will be about $11K for this issue. Think that may finally put me out of a signed Mercanti piece. I know the coin dealers need to make a little money but more than doubling the mint’s price is a bit excessive in my opinion and I know that Mercanti can’t be charging THAT much for his signature……. I do like the coin however, so I may have to go on the open market to get my 70 DCAM/UC to keep my set going.
Better to just get it graded yourself given the absurd mark ups for this one.
I've been in the same boat. Last year I wound up with a 69 and had to buy aftermarket and dump the 69. I hope I have better luck this year. Just got my results for 4 Congratulations ASE's. They all came back 69's.
This is not an encouraging anecdote. Thanks for sharing candidly !
Last year I bought two Sunflower Gold coins from the Mint. Both had flaws. I had hoped to have them both in the pf70 candidacy eyeballing.
Cost me close to a hondo to mail back insure by registered mail. In hindsight, they would have been fairly priced gold bullion in today's prices for gold.
This is what puts the brakes on me for this buffalo.
Even gives me pause for the 'bust' gold coin, although I like it for sure !
Lately there have been far too many (for my gut) special releases having quality problems. Yikes.
Well I think on the buffalo the odds of a70 are probably about 70%. So for ~$1400 - $150 (grading and shipping) it's worth the gamble for me to try. But you have to be ready to scramble if you get the 69. Not to mention gold price changes.
@jmski52 said:
We've been through this so many times that it makes me wonder why I keep doing it, except for the fact that I have a collection in process.
I've made a ton of money on straight bullion but I've given a significant chunk of it back in terms of collector premiums, grading fees, and auction fees on coins other than straight bullion. This doesn't speak well of the way that the coin collecting industry is structured.
A price of 7K or 10K is obscene to the max, especially when spot gold is what, $4,800?
In my view, the only comeback to this situation is to either buy 2 or 3 individual coins and keep them in the box until the dust settles, or to use that money to buy straight bullion and to scrap the whole idea of a collection.
I'm in the same boat. The only thing that give me hope is that I have an optimistic view, whether realistic or not, that there will be a modern day "coin bubble" when premiums on coins will go nuts because suddenly the general public will become aware of and fascinated with coins and bullion. We're due for such an event, but I may be naive.
i've had decent luck with grading modern gold at our hosts - but make sure you do a very good inspection of the coin when received; especially for contact marks and scrapes on the rims - seems like the services do not like scraped up rims, usually found at 6 oclock and noon positions. Also, contrast of the fields against the devices, when I find disturbances (even small dots) in the mirror fields this usually warrants a 69.
This one is a tough pill to swallow. Still can't believe what I paid for this. Hate paying so much for something w so little excitement.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
I really enjoy this series and it has been a very fun way to accumulate some gold. Keeping the series has also kept me from selling gold as it has gone up , which has worked out well.
Still, no numismatic premium on most of them despite big premium to spot has been tough to see.
@Raufus said:
This one is a tough pill to swallow. Still can't believe what I paid for this. Hate paying so much for something w so little excitement.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
Gold is not going to go down significantly. It's only higher from here.
While I would always like to pay less for everything I buy, this one is a keeper for me. If my heirs choose to sell down the road, they haven’t really lost anything. I would have, but I’m certain I won’t care at that time. This is a hobby for me, and while I would like to say this coin is an investment for me, it’s not. Just something I want to look at and enjoy while I have it.
That said, in the long run I think you’ll not regret the purchase. If gold blows past $6000 in a year or so you’ll be “golden”!
@Wingsrule said:
Ordered mine at 11:32 and it was still showing HHL 1.
HHL lifted at noon. 24 hours after on sale time.
Was yours at 11:30 backordered?
5875 left. That seemed to result in another 500 selling. Another 2-3k will probably dwindle out over the rest of the year and a few thousand will sit on the shelves like all of the other stale product.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
I think the Mint is missing an opportunity on fractionals. I'd love to have a 1/4-ounce buffalo. Maybe others would like a 1/2-ounce, 1/4-ounce, or 1/10-ounce buffalo. I know the Mint made them in 2008. Too bad the Mint doesn't (or isn't allowed to) still produce them.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
I think the Mint is missing an opportunity on fractionals. I'd love to have a 1/4-ounce buffalo. Maybe others would like a 1/2-ounce, 1/4-ounce, or 1/10-ounce buffalo. I know the Mint made them in 2008. Too bad the Mint doesn't (or isn't allowed to) still produce them.
And this, the 20th anniversary, would have been a golden opportunity to do so.
@Nephasth said:
The 2026 has sold 8,788 and counting. Surpassing 2025's 7,851 sold.
5387 left which are on backorder to June 18
I'm just hoping this doesn't end up like my Rev War quarter rolls and dime bags where my minute 1 order winds up backordered after a weekend of "processing".
@Nephasth said:
The 2026 has sold 8,788 and counting. Surpassing 2025's 7,851 sold.
5387 left which are on backorder to June 18
I'm just hoping this doesn't end up like my Rev War quarter rolls and dime bags where my minute 1 order winds up backordered after a weekend of "processing".
i'LL hope along with you that it doesn't happen to either one of us. I WANT IT NOW! LOL
@Raufus said:
Fractionals? Omg. Would be even more $. The cost of the special gold offerings this year is already astronomical.
I’m starting to see some photos of “in hand” 2026 Buffalos and I have to say that the Mint product page images do NOT do it justice. Cannot wait to stare at mine for days on end. 🤣
@Raufus said:
Fractionals? Omg. Would be even more $. The cost of the special gold offerings this year is already astronomical.
I’m starting to see some photos of “in hand” 2026 Buffalos and I have to say that the Mint product page images do NOT do it justice. Cannot wait to stare at mine for days on end. 🤣
Mine is supposed to arrive on Monday. I'll post a pic.
I really like the privy on these (from pics at least). However, I'm very sorry that they are doing it on the HR. The UHR was too small. Now, the HR would be perfect except that the privy is so distracting for an otherwise perfect coin. Same for the 1804. Such a bummer.
@Raufus said:
This one is a tough pill to swallow. Still can't believe what I paid for this. Hate paying so much for something w so little excitement.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
Gold is not going to go down significantly. It's only higher from here.
While I would always like to pay less for everything I buy, this one is a keeper for me. If my heirs choose to sell down the road, they haven’t really lost anything. I would have, but I’m certain I won’t care at that time. This is a hobby for me, and while I would like to say this coin is an investment for me, it’s not. Just something I want to look at and enjoy while I have it.
That said, in the long run I think you’ll not regret the purchase. If gold blows past $6000 in a year or so you’ll be “golden”!
Appreciate the post.
Everyone is, of course, different.
I very much consider the value and future potential of expensive collectibles. I first starting buying the Buffs as I was able to get in at the start and thought it would be fun way to get physical gold. Unfortunately, they have always been quite high relative to spot & the vast majority have no numismatic premium.
Barring an unforeseen early death, I would look to sell most any collectible of real value in my older years. I am always perplexed at people "buying one for the grands", "saving for the kids", etc. They may well have zero appreciation and knowledge of any given collectible. They then end up sold for pennies on the dollar. I don't know how people don't see that.
My BIL inherited gold coins from his father. They were randomly divided among three children. He was showing me his a few years back. Among the Krugerrands and AGEs was a 1790 something (can't remember exactly now) gold half-eagled. To them it was just bullion. Had I not told him what it was it would have gone to pawn for spot. Perhaps there were others that his siblings got that did.
I also have a list of trusted people for my various expensive collectibles that can advise my family if I die suddenly.
Anything that my kids are not really interested in, know about and deserve will get sold.
I think of this everytime I see someone here - and on other expensive collectible forums - talk about getting one "for the grands" etc.
Local shop pays 98% spot on this and any other Buffalo ounce.
Mintages do not matter, it's just bullion.
No OGP then deduct another $25.
Slabbed PCGS & NGC 70:
98% spot cash, no OGP less another $25.
In spite of this reality it's what they pay all day long and they do quite well vacuuming up stuff people just want cash for:
Gifts, heirs, cash strapped collectors...
I've sold to them when I have something special I want to buy, call me cash strapped too
;^)
@Raufus said:
This one is a tough pill to swallow. Still can't believe what I paid for this. Hate paying so much for something w so little excitement.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
I really enjoy this series and it has been a very fun way to accumulate some gold. Keeping the series has also kept me from selling gold as it has gone up , which has worked out well.
Still, no numismatic premium on most of them despite big premium to spot has been tough to see.
It arrived today as advertised.
Very nice looking coin, as all of the gold buffs are.
The double date and even the OGP are cool. The privy is very subtle - more so than I expected.
This looks to be a very nice example. Rims seem perfect.
I still can't get over the price. I look at this thing and consider the cost - just seems absurd.
I remember paying far less (about half) for the entire 20th anniversary set, multiple 4 coin sets, etc.
@Raufus said:
It arrived today as advertised.
Very nice looking coin, as all of the gold buffs are.
The double date and even the OGP are cool. The privy is very subtle - more so than I expected.
This looks to be a very nice example. Rims seem perfect.
I still can't get over the price. I look at this thing and consider the cost - just seems absurd.
I remember paying far less (about half) for the entire 20th anniversary set, multiple 4 coin sets, etc.
Thanks for the share! Waiting on mine. I do miss the old wooden boxes they used to put them in. Much prefer that over the generic cardboard box and clamshell.
@Raufus said:
It arrived today as advertised.
Very nice looking coin, as all of the gold buffs are.
The double date and even the OGP are cool. The privy is very subtle - more so than I expected.
This looks to be a very nice example. Rims seem perfect.
I still can't get over the price. I look at this thing and consider the cost - just seems absurd.
I remember paying far less (about half) for the entire 20th anniversary set, multiple 4 coin sets, etc.
Thanks for the share! Waiting on mine. I do miss the old wooden boxes they used to put them in. Much prefer that over the generic cardboard box and clamshell.
I don’t like to predict, but I’m pretty sure we are not having any new grandchildren in 2026. Then again, Who knows ? And if I have to, the uncirculated version can join the herd.
Purchased my FDOI signed Mercanti 2026 Proof Buffalo today, thereby keeping my proof set complete. $7995 which was $3000 less than many on eBay. I think this one will finish the run for me. Was told it may be late June or July before delivery occurred. Cheers, karl
@Raufus said:
It arrived today as advertised.
Very nice looking coin, as all of the gold buffs are.
The double date and even the OGP are cool. The privy is very subtle - more so than I expected.
This looks to be a very nice example. Rims seem perfect.
I still can't get over the price. I look at this thing and consider the cost - just seems absurd.
I remember paying far less (about half) for the entire 20th anniversary set, multiple 4 coin sets, etc.
Thanks for the share! Waiting on mine. I do miss the old wooden boxes they used to put them in. Much prefer that over the generic cardboard box and clamshell.
Yeah, well for only a $900+ premium to spot, you can't also expect a wooden box. Gotta keep costs down in order to keep the premiums reasonable. 🤣🤣🤣
That said, you can't blame them if people are willing to buy at these prices, in this packaging.
Thanks for the share! Waiting on mine. I do miss the old wooden boxes they used to put them in. Much prefer that over the generic cardboard box and clamshell.
Yeah, well for only a $900+ premium to spot, you can't also expect a wooden box. Gotta keep costs down in order to keep the premiums reasonable. 🤣🤣🤣
That said, you can't blame them if people are willing to buy at these prices, in this packaging.
That’s a good point. Why bother with excess if you’ve still got a market in bland packaging? Let’s see how this Best of the Mint line looks when they hit the market.
@safari_dude said:
Purchased my FDOI signed Mercanti 2026 Proof Buffalo today, thereby keeping my proof set complete. $7995 which was $3000 less than many on eBay. I think this one will finish the run for me. Was told it may be late June or July before delivery occurred. Cheers, karl
I'm curious where you got it at that discount?
Mine shipped today. The good news/bad news is that with minimum grading tier being express I'll have the grade pretty fast.
I remember back in the day the mint would’ve gotten these out in a day or two, I don’t know what they’re doing nowadays, just one person working on this stuff or what.
@goldbuffalo said:
Still waiting for my first day order to ship.
I remember back in the day the mint would’ve gotten these out in a day or two, I don’t know what they’re doing nowadays, just one person working on this stuff or what.
My first day order took 8 days to arrive, but I chose the no bells and whistles shipping method. Next gold purchase I will use next day shipping though.
@goldbuffalo said:
Still waiting for my first day order to ship.
I remember back in the day the mint would’ve gotten these out in a day or two, I don’t know what they’re doing nowadays, just one person working on this stuff or what.
Did you order early or late in the day? Check the status of your order, is it processing or backordered? I've had other mint products, ordered within the first minute of release, change from processing to backordered after a few days. If on backorder, you'll likely be waiting a few more weeks.
@goldbuffalo said:
Still waiting for my first day order to ship.
I remember back in the day the mint would’ve gotten these out in a day or two, I don’t know what they’re doing nowadays, just one person working on this stuff or what.
I would call the mint and ask if there are any problems. I recently had to that with a dime bag order. Re-entered my CC and it shipped out the following day.
I would call the mint and ask if there are any problems. I recently had to that with a dime bag order. Re-entered my CC and it shipped out the following day.
Comments
We've been through this so many times that it makes me wonder why I keep doing it, except for the fact that I have a collection in process.
I've made a ton of money on straight bullion but I've given a significant chunk of it back in terms of collector premiums, grading fees, and auction fees on coins other than straight bullion. This doesn't speak well of the way that the coin collecting industry is structured.
A price of 7K or 10K is obscene to the max, especially when spot gold is what, $4,800?
In my view, the only comeback to this situation is to either buy 2 or 3 individual coins and keep them in the box until the dust settles, or to use that money to buy straight bullion and to scrap the whole idea of a collection.
I knew it would happen.
Well I think on the buffalo the odds of a70 are probably about 70%. So for ~$1400 - $150 (grading and shipping) it's worth the gamble for me to try. But you have to be ready to scramble if you get the 69. Not to mention gold price changes.
I'm in the same boat. The only thing that give me hope is that I have an optimistic view, whether realistic or not, that there will be a modern day "coin bubble" when premiums on coins will go nuts because suddenly the general public will become aware of and fascinated with coins and bullion. We're due for such an event, but I may be naive.
i've had decent luck with grading modern gold at our hosts - but make sure you do a very good inspection of the coin when received; especially for contact marks and scrapes on the rims - seems like the services do not like scraped up rims, usually found at 6 oclock and noon positions. Also, contrast of the fields against the devices, when I find disturbances (even small dots) in the mirror fields this usually warrants a 69.
This one is a tough pill to swallow. Still can't believe what I paid for this. Hate paying so much for something w so little excitement.
Was wondering if I should just sell all the buffs except the fractionals and be done with the series while gold is high.
I really enjoy this series and it has been a very fun way to accumulate some gold. Keeping the series has also kept me from selling gold as it has gone up , which has worked out well.
Still, no numismatic premium on most of them despite big premium to spot has been tough to see.
Ugh.
It's my understanding that CAC does not sticker modern coins. Maybe that's a good thing. We'd see even higher premiums!
Gold is not going to go down significantly. It's only higher from here.
While I would always like to pay less for everything I buy, this one is a keeper for me. If my heirs choose to sell down the road, they haven’t really lost anything. I would have, but I’m certain I won’t care at that time. This is a hobby for me, and while I would like to say this coin is an investment for me, it’s not. Just something I want to look at and enjoy while I have it.
That said, in the long run I think you’ll not regret the purchase. If gold blows past $6000 in a year or so you’ll be “golden”!
HHL was lifted and 1,00 more went right away
"This product is currently on back order and is estimated to ship on Thu Jun 18 2026."
ats": 6487,
Ordered mine at 11:32 and it was still showing HHL 1.
HHL lifted at noon. 24 hours after on sale time.
Was yours at 11:30 backordered?
5875 left. That seemed to result in another 500 selling. Another 2-3k will probably dwindle out over the rest of the year and a few thousand will sit on the shelves like all of the other stale product.
I think the Mint is missing an opportunity on fractionals. I'd love to have a 1/4-ounce buffalo. Maybe others would like a 1/2-ounce, 1/4-ounce, or 1/10-ounce buffalo. I know the Mint made them in 2008. Too bad the Mint doesn't (or isn't allowed to) still produce them.
And this, the 20th anniversary, would have been a golden opportunity to do so.
The 2026 has sold 8,788 and counting. Surpassing 2025's 7,851 sold.
5387 left which are on backorder to June 18
I'm just hoping this doesn't end up like my Rev War quarter rolls and dime bags where my minute 1 order winds up backordered after a weekend of "processing".
No
i'LL hope along with you that it doesn't happen to either one of us. I WANT IT NOW! LOL
Fractionals? Omg. Would be even more $. The cost of the special gold offerings this year is already astronomical.
I’m starting to see some photos of “in hand” 2026 Buffalos and I have to say that the Mint product page images do NOT do it justice. Cannot wait to stare at mine for days on end. 🤣
It's too bad the mint didn't stick to the original numbers as these would already be sold out and going up in price.
Well, the way 2026 is shaking out at the Mint, they did say 15,000, so we should plan on that (and maybe even more had it all sold out on day one)
They did blow thru the 5400 ATS the first day, and all other orders since then are on a June 18 backorder.
Mine is supposed to arrive on Monday. I'll post a pic.
I really like the privy on these (from pics at least). However, I'm very sorry that they are doing it on the HR. The UHR was too small. Now, the HR would be perfect except that the privy is so distracting for an otherwise perfect coin. Same for the 1804. Such a bummer.
Appreciate the post.
Everyone is, of course, different.
I very much consider the value and future potential of expensive collectibles. I first starting buying the Buffs as I was able to get in at the start and thought it would be fun way to get physical gold. Unfortunately, they have always been quite high relative to spot & the vast majority have no numismatic premium.
Barring an unforeseen early death, I would look to sell most any collectible of real value in my older years. I am always perplexed at people "buying one for the grands", "saving for the kids", etc. They may well have zero appreciation and knowledge of any given collectible. They then end up sold for pennies on the dollar. I don't know how people don't see that.
My BIL inherited gold coins from his father. They were randomly divided among three children. He was showing me his a few years back. Among the Krugerrands and AGEs was a 1790 something (can't remember exactly now) gold half-eagled. To them it was just bullion. Had I not told him what it was it would have gone to pawn for spot. Perhaps there were others that his siblings got that did.
I also have a list of trusted people for my various expensive collectibles that can advise my family if I die suddenly.
Anything that my kids are not really interested in, know about and deserve will get sold.
I think of this everytime I see someone here - and on other expensive collectible forums - talk about getting one "for the grands" etc.
Local shop pays 98% spot on this and any other Buffalo ounce.
Mintages do not matter, it's just bullion.
No OGP then deduct another $25.
Slabbed PCGS & NGC 70:
98% spot cash, no OGP less another $25.
In spite of this reality it's what they pay all day long and they do quite well vacuuming up stuff people just want cash for:
Gifts, heirs, cash strapped collectors...
I've sold to them when I have something special I want to buy, call me cash strapped too
;^)
It arrived today as advertised.
Very nice looking coin, as all of the gold buffs are.
The double date and even the OGP are cool. The privy is very subtle - more so than I expected.
This looks to be a very nice example. Rims seem perfect.
I still can't get over the price. I look at this thing and consider the cost - just seems absurd.
I remember paying far less (about half) for the entire 20th anniversary set, multiple 4 coin sets, etc.
Thanks for the share! Waiting on mine. I do miss the old wooden boxes they used to put them in. Much prefer that over the generic cardboard box and clamshell.
The wooden boxes are $10 at APMEX
>
Sweet. I am envious.
I don’t like to predict, but I’m pretty sure we are not having any new grandchildren in 2026. Then again, Who knows ? And if I have to, the uncirculated version can join the herd.
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
Purchased my FDOI signed Mercanti 2026 Proof Buffalo today, thereby keeping my proof set complete. $7995 which was $3000 less than many on eBay. I think this one will finish the run for me. Was told it may be late June or July before delivery occurred. Cheers, karl
Yeah, well for only a $900+ premium to spot, you can't also expect a wooden box. Gotta keep costs down in order to keep the premiums reasonable. 🤣🤣🤣
That said, you can't blame them if people are willing to buy at these prices, in this packaging.
That’s a good point. Why bother with excess if you’ve still got a market in bland packaging? Let’s see how this Best of the Mint line looks when they hit the market.
Around 10,000 sold in the first week priced at $5540. Price is now $5640 with 3,855 ATS.
I'm curious where you got it at that discount?
Mine shipped today. The good news/bad news is that with minimum grading tier being express I'll have the grade pretty fast.
Wow!
Mine was cheap last week @ only $5540
Mine arrives tomorrow! Can't wait to see this one with my own eyes. Your photos were appreciated to hold me over.
Got the 2026 yesterday. While very similar, there are changes to the 250th anniversary version. Loving the new one!
Anyone have an update on the ATS as of now? Thanks!
ATS 3635
Thanks! Karl
Still moving down slowly. They’ve moved a lot in a week.
I believe they will sell out. What would a CAC 70 go for? Super investment buy?
Still waiting for my first day order to ship.
I remember back in the day the mint would’ve gotten these out in a day or two, I don’t know what they’re doing nowadays, just one person working on this stuff or what.
My first day order took 8 days to arrive, but I chose the no bells and whistles shipping method. Next gold purchase I will use next day shipping though.
Did you order early or late in the day? Check the status of your order, is it processing or backordered? I've had other mint products, ordered within the first minute of release, change from processing to backordered after a few days. If on backorder, you'll likely be waiting a few more weeks.
I would call the mint and ask if there are any problems. I recently had to that with a dime bag order. Re-entered my CC and it shipped out the following day.
Thanks for the info. Good to know.
Got the ship notification today
Wait until you see it in-hand!