Alabama

Alabama’s Golden Heritage Beckons

Alabama’s history glitters with gold, sparked by the 1830s rush in Chilton County that birthed boomtowns like Arbacoochee and Goldville—home to thousands chasing dreams of wealth. By 1845, Arbacoochee alone employed 600 men and housed 5,000 souls, fueled by the state’s rich Piedmont gold belt. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this legacy, offering Alabamians a tangible link to their past. In a state that once outshone California’s early rush, why not embrace gold as a modern treasure again?

Legislative Gold Rush: Alabama’s Sound Money Leap

Alabama is a likely next candidate for Goldbacks as Alabama is in 9th place of the 2025 Sound Money Index and all 6 current Goldback states are in the top 12 Sound Money Index. Alabama quickly climbed up the chart recently as it was not even listed in the top 12 for 2024. Alabama also borders Florida which has Goldbacks. Four of the current six Goldback states share a border with another Goldback state. Alabama’s legislature is striking gold for sound money. In May 2024, Governor Kay Ivey signed Senate Bill 297 (SB 297), eliminating income taxes on gold and silver capital gains, effective immediately. On February 19, 2025, Senate Bill 130 (SB 130) passed the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee unanimously, recognizing gold and silver as legal tender—awaiting full Senate approval. Building on 2018’s sales tax exemption (extended in 2022 via SB 13), Alabama’s laws now make gold transactions seamless, positioning it as a Goldback leader in the South.

Economic Resilience and Alabama Pride

The Goldback powers Alabama’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s ideal for small buys—from Montgomery’s pecan stands to Mobile’s seafood shacks. With inflation looming, its gold backing offers stability, resonating with Alabama’s rugged resolve. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: the Saturn V, sweet tea, or the Gulf Coast. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw sound-money fans, while dealers thrive under tax-free laws. This is Alabama’s chance to gleam—economically and culturally.

Alabama-Specific Goldback Designs

Here’s how Alabama’s Goldback denominations could honor its significant people and places:

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a miner at Arbacoochee, recalling the 1840s gold rush that put Alabama on the map.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Rosa Parks on a Montgomery bus, honoring her 1955 stand that sparked the Civil Rights Movement.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases the Saturn V rocket at Huntsville’s Space Center, celebrating Alabama’s role in space exploration.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Hank Williams strumming in Montgomery, capturing the country music legend born in Mount Olive.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Gulf Shores’ golden beaches, reflecting Alabama’s natural beauty and coastal allure.

These designs turn the Goldback into a tribute to Alabama’s history and heart, blending value with legacy.

A Golden Call to Lead the South

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Alabama can lead the South. With SB 130 advancing, SB 297’s tax relief, and a gold rush past, Alabama is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the Senate to pass SB 130 and launch an Alabama Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Birmingham to Dothan—proving Alabama isn’t just the Heart of Dixie but its golden heart. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Alabama golden.