Nevada: The Silver State Goes Gold
Nevada became the second state to launch Goldbacks in 2020, a fitting choice given its legendary mining history. While nicknamed the "Silver State," Nevada's gold production has actually exceeded silver in value for decades, making Goldbacks a natural fit.
Nevada's Mining Heritage
Nevada leads the United States in gold production, contributing over 70% of domestic output. Major mining districts include:
- Carlin Trend (world's second-largest gold deposit)
- Battle Mountain-Eureka
- Getchell
- Round Mountain
This heritage makes Nevada's embrace of Goldbacks particularly meaningful.
Design Themes
Nevada Goldbacks celebrate the state's unique character:
- Mining and prospecting imagery
- Desert landscapes and wildlife
- Frontier spirit and independence
- Native American heritage
- Iconic Nevada landmarks
The Denominations
1 Goldback - Aurum (Gold) The base denomination pays direct homage to gold itself. Imagery includes prospecting tools, gold nuggets, and Nevada's desert flora.
Gold content: 1/1000 troy ounce
5 Goldbacks - Fortuna (Fortune) Fortune, with imagery reflecting the luck and perseverance of mining life. Nevada's mountains feature prominently in the background.
Gold content: 5/1000 troy ounce
10 Goldbacks - Industria (Industry) Industry celebrates hard work and enterprise, core values that built Nevada. Mining scenes and industrial progress appear in the design.
Gold content: 10/1000 troy ounce
25 Goldbacks - Veritas (Truth) Truth carries symbols of honesty and fair dealing, essential in mining communities where handshake deals were law.
Gold content: 25/1000 troy ounce
50 Goldbacks - Virtus (Virtue) Virtue crowns the Nevada series with themes of moral courage, depicted against Nevada's dramatic landscape.
Gold content: 50/1000 troy ounce
Artistic Highlights
Nevada designs incorporate:
- Sagebrush and desert wildflowers
- Wild mustangs (Nevada has the largest population in the US)
- Mining carts, pickaxes, and gold pans
- Mountain ranges and desert vistas
- Stars from the Nevada flag
- Bighorn sheep and other native wildlife
Collector Notes
Mining State Appeal: Nevada Goldbacks appeal strongly to mining enthusiasts and Western history collectors.
Condition: Like all Goldbacks, handling affects appearance. Original mint condition commands premiums.
Pairs Well: Collectors often display Nevada alongside Utah Goldbacks as the pioneering pair.
Nevada Goldback Economy
The Nevada Goldback economy is developing:
- Las Vegas and Reno merchant adoption
- Collector shows and conventions
- Growing awareness across the state
- Integration with tourism and hospitality
Unique Aspects
Legal Tender Context: Nevada allows gold and silver as legal tender for debt payment at their face value, though practical use follows market value.
Tax Treatment: Nevada has no state income tax, simplifying some aspects of Goldback ownership and use.
Connecting Past and Present
Nevada Goldbacks create a tangible link between the state's mining past and monetary future. They remind us that gold mining—whether in Nevada's hills or in the form of innovative currency—remains relevant in the modern economy.
For collectors, the Nevada series offers beautiful artwork celebrating a unique American story. For users, they provide a practical way to hold and spend gold in the Silver State and beyond.