District of Columbia

The Capital’s Golden Destiny

The District of Columbia, America’s political heart, pulses with a legacy of economic might—home to the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve’s origins. While not a gold mining hub, D.C.’s proximity to Fort Knox (just 600 miles away) and its engraving of gold-backed currency history make it a symbolic gold powerhouse. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—offers D.C. a chance to lead as the first city with its own series, blending national prestige with local innovation. Why not let the capital set a golden standard?

Legislative Opportunity: A Golden Framework

D.C.’s Council can pioneer gold-friendly laws within its unique jurisdiction. Currently, gold transactions face federal capital gains taxes under 26 U.S.C. § 1, but D.C.’s lack of state sales tax offers a head start. In 2024, Councilmember Trayon White introduced Bill 25-0678, proposing to exempt precious metals from local taxes and recognize gold as a voluntary tender—passed by the Committee on Business and Economic Development on January 29, 2025, awaiting full Council vote. If enacted, D.C. could blaze a trail for urban Goldback use.

Economic Innovation and Capital Pride

The Goldback energizes D.C.’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Dupont Circle’s coffee shops to Eastern Market’s stalls. With inflation a concern, its gold backing offers stability, resonating with D.C.’s savvy residents. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing D.C. icons: the Lincoln Memorial, Duke Ellington, or Cherry Blossoms. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money fans, sparking a new economic vibe. This is D.C.’s chance to glitter uniquely.

District of Columbia-Specific Goldback Designs

Here’s how D.C.’s Goldback denominations could honor its significant people and places:

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Frederick Douglass at his Anacostia home, honoring the abolitionist who shaped D.C.’s moral compass.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts the Lincoln Memorial at dawn, symbolizing unity and resilience in the nation’s capital.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Duke Ellington at the piano, celebrating the jazz legend born and raised in D.C.’s U Street corridor.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights the Cherry Blossoms along the Tidal Basin, reflecting D.C.’s iconic spring beauty.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures the U.S. Capitol dome in gold, embodying D.C.’s role as the seat of American democracy.

These designs turn the Goldback into a vibrant tribute to D.C.’s history and culture, blending value with capital pride.

A Golden Call to Lead as a City

States like Utah and Nevada have Goldbacks, but D.C. can be the first city to claim this honor. With Bill 25-0678 advancing, a symbolic gold legacy, and a global stage, D.C. is poised to lead urban America in sound money. Let’s urge the Council to pass Bill 25-0678 and launch a D.C. Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Georgetown to Shaw—proving the District isn’t just the nation’s capital but its golden innovator. The time is now.

Rise up. Make D.C. golden.