Black Diamond (buffalo)
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Black Diamond was a buffalo or North American bison, housed at New York's Bronx Zoo, used as the model for the US buffalo nickel coin introduced in 1913, designed and sculpted by American sculptor James Earle Fraser in 1911. According to numerous sources, the model proved quite uncooperative, as it persisted in facing Fraser, who wanted a side view.
Black Diamond had an unusually dark coat, which undoubtedly gave gave rise to its name, and is stated to have been from stock donated by Barnum and Bailey's circus. He was apparently a popular attraction at the zoo.
The buffalo nickel continued in production until 1938, but has been reprised in a 2001 US commemorative coin, and more recently in a new one ounce find gold bullion coin, the gold buffalo.
