Oklahoma

Oklahoma, the heartland of American resilience and cultural diversity, is the perfect addition to the Goldback series. Known for its deep historical roots, proud indigenous heritage, and pioneering spirit, Oklahoma represents values that align beautifully with the virtues depicted on every Goldback note.

As the demand for voluntary, gold-based currency grows, Oklahoma stands out as a state where tradition meets forward-thinking. With its strong sense of community and appreciation for self-reliance, Oklahomans are uniquely positioned to embrace the freedom and security that Goldbacks provide.

Gold-Positive Legislation in Oklahoma

Oklahoma has emerged as a leader in the sound money movement, thanks to legislation that supports gold and silver as constitutional tender. The state has:

• Repealed sales tax on precious metals, making it easier and more affordable for residents to purchase and use gold in voluntary transactions.
• Passed laws that recognize gold and silver as legal tender, aligning with Article I, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution.
• Encouraged financial institutions and treasurers to explore reserves backed by precious metals, reinforcing economic stability.

This legislative foundation provides a friendly and stable environment for the voluntary use of Goldbacks in commerce, savings, and local trade — making Oklahoma a natural next step in the expansion of the Goldback series.

Imagery Inspiration for Oklahoma Goldbacks

Each Goldback denomination features a unique virtue and blends it with meaningful state-based imagery. Here's how Oklahoma's rich heritage could be reflected:

• 1 Goldback – Fortitudo (Fortitude): Featuring a pioneer woman symbolizing the strength and endurance of early Oklahoma settlers. Background imagery could include the Land Run of 1889 and classic sod houses.
• 5 Goldbacks – Caritas (Charity): Inspired by Clara Luper, a civil rights leader who led one of the earliest sit-ins in America. The background may include the Oklahoma City Sit-In Movement and community gatherings.
• 10 Goldbacks – Spes (Hope): Featuring imagery of Will Rogers, the beloved humorist and social commentator, symbolizing optimism and wisdom. The landscape could showcase the Wichita Mountains or sunrise over Oklahoma prairie fields.
• 25 Goldbacks – Justitia (Justice): Honoring the diverse Native American nations of Oklahoma, with a representation of a Native American woman as Lady Justice. The background might include the Trail of Tears Memorial or imagery from the Five Civilized Tribes Museum.
• 50 Goldbacks – Libertas (Liberty): Featuring a powerful female figure symbolizing freedom, perhaps standing in front of the Oklahoma State Capitol or Route 66. Symbols of energy independence, such as wind turbines and oil rigs, could be incorporated as nods to Oklahoma's contributions to American prosperity.

Oklahoma and Goldbacks: A Natural Fit

From the legacy of its indigenous peoples and pioneers to its role in shaping American energy and culture, Oklahoma embodies the values that Goldbacks represent. Coupled with gold-friendly legislation, the state is poised to lead a new era of voluntary, inflation-resistant money.

Start collecting the Oklahoma Goldbacks and own a piece of history, virtue, and art — all made with real gold.

The history of gold in Oklahoma is distinct from the more famous gold rushes of the western mountain states. While Oklahoma is better known for its oil and gas resources, the state does have a history of gold discovery, primarily concentrated in the Wichita Mountains of southwestern Oklahoma. The story of gold in Oklahoma is one of sporadic finds, persistent hope, and relatively limited large-scale production.

Early reports of gold in Oklahoma date back to the late 19th century, coinciding with the opening of the territory to settlement. Prospectors drawn to the area by rumors of gold found small amounts of placer gold in streams and creeks within the Wichita Mountains. These discoveries, though not substantial, fueled the belief that larger deposits might exist. The rugged terrain and relative isolation of the region made systematic exploration challenging, and the focus of economic development quickly shifted to other resources.

The most significant gold discoveries in Oklahoma occurred in the early 20th century, particularly in the vicinity of the town of Wildman. Small mining operations were established, and some gold was extracted from lode deposits within the mountains. However, these operations were generally short-lived and yielded limited quantities of gold. The geology of the Wichita Mountains, while containing some gold-bearing veins, did not prove to be as rich as those found in other gold-producing states. The lack of large-scale, commercially viable gold deposits meant that Oklahoma's gold mining industry never reached the prominence of its neighboring states.

Despite the limited commercial success, the allure of gold persisted in Oklahoma. Recreational gold prospecting continues to this day, with enthusiasts searching for gold flakes and nuggets in the streams and canyons of the Wichita Mountains. Metal detecting and panning are popular activities, offering a connection to the state's mining history and the thrill of potential discovery. While the chances of finding significant amounts of gold are slim, the scenic beauty of the region and the sense of adventure draw prospectors to the area.

The legacy of gold in Oklahoma is more of a footnote in the state's history compared to its oil and gas prominence. However, the stories of early prospectors and the continued interest in recreational gold hunting add a unique chapter to Oklahoma's rich and diverse heritage. The state's history, while not defined by gold, still contains the echoes of those who searched for the precious metal within its borders.