Guam

The Westernmost U.S. Frontier’s Golden Opportunity

Guam, the westernmost point of the United States, is a strategic and cultural gem in Micronesia, known as Guåhan to its Chamorro people. While not historically a gold mining hub, Guam’s role as a Pacific trade crossroads and military bastion—hosting Andersen Air Force Base—ties it to economic resilience. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—offers Guam a chance to lead U.S. territories in embracing sound money, reflecting its proud heritage of adaptability. Why not let Guam, where America’s day begins, start a golden dawn?

Legislative Opportunity: A Golden Path Forward

Guam’s unicameral Legislature can forge a gold-friendly future. Currently, gold transactions fall under U.S. federal oversight with no local sales tax, but capital gains taxes apply per 26 U.S.C. § 1. In 2024, Senator Telo Taitague introduced Bill 245-37, proposing to exempt precious metals from local taxes and recognize gold as a voluntary tender for territorial debts—passed by the Committee on Economic Development on February 10, 2025, awaiting full legislative vote. If enacted, Guam could pioneer Goldback use among territories, leveraging its autonomy.

Economic Strength and Chamorro Pride

The Goldback enhances Guam’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Hagåtña’s markets to Dededo’s street vendors. With inflation a concern, its gold backing offers stability, aligning with Guam’s reliance on tourism and military presence. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing Guam’s icons: latte stones, Chief Quipuha, or Two Lovers Point. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money enthusiasts, strengthening local trade. This is Guam’s chance to shine.

Guam-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Chief Quipuha welcoming Magellan in 1521, symbolizing Guam’s Chamorro hospitality and first European contact.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts latte stones at Taga House, honoring the ancient Chamorro engineering marvels still standing today.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Two Lovers Point, its golden cliffs rising, reflecting Guam’s romantic legend and scenic beauty.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Carl Gutierrez at Liberation Day, celebrating the former governor who championed post-WWII recovery.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Taotao Mona in a rainforest, embodying the Chamorro ancestral spirits and Guam’s lush heritage.

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

A Golden Call to Lead the Territories

States like Utah and Nevada have Goldbacks, but Guam can be the first territory to claim this honor. With Bill 245-37 advancing, a strategic Pacific role, and a rich Chamorro legacy, Guam is poised to lead U.S. territories in sound money. Let’s urge the Legislature to pass Bill 245-37 and launch a Guam Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Tamuning to Yigo—proving Guam isn’t just America’s western edge but its golden vanguard. The time is now.

Håfa Adai. Make Guam golden.