ObverseThe obverse of 2023 American Buffalo 1 oz Gold Coins includes the right-profile portrait of an indigenous tribal figure. James Earle Fraser created this design in 1913 by combining the facial features of three real-life indigenous leaders of the era. This figure has braided hair with a feather woven in. Liberty and a date mark are inscribed on this side.ReverseFor the reverse, 2023 American Buffalo 1 oz Gold Coins depict a large bison in left-profile relief standing on a mound of dirt. Fraser also created this image in 1913 and used Black Diamond, a resident bison of the Central Park Zoo in New York City, as the inspiration for his design.HistoryThe US Mint introduced the American Buffalo 1 oz Gold Coin in 2006 with 24-karat gold. It was the first time a coin of this purity was produced. Other commemorative gold coins in 24-karat gold have since been issued, but the American Buffalo is the only coin issued every year with 24-karat gold.