Idaho

The Gem State’s Golden Heritage

Idaho, dubbed the "Gem State," has gold coursing through its veins. Since the 1860s, when prospectors struck rich veins in the Boise Basin—yielding over 2.5 million ounces by century’s end—Idaho’s mining legacy has gleamed. Towns like Idaho City and Pierce sprang from these finds, shaping a state born of grit and gold. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this heritage, offering Idahoans a tangible link to their past. In a state forged by precious metals, why not let gold shine as currency again?

Legislative Gold Rush: Idaho’s Sound Money Push

Idaho is the likely next candidate for Goldbacks as Idaho is 12th best state in the 2024 Sound Money Index and all 6 current Goldback states are in the top 12 Sound Money Index. Also, Idaho is bordered by two Goldback states, Utah and Wyoming, and 4 of the 6 Goldback states are adjacent to each other. Idaho’s legislature is paving a golden path. In 2019, Senate Bill 502 eliminated sales taxes on precious metals, easing gold transactions. In 2025, House Bill 177 (H177)—the Idaho Constitutional Money Act—passed the House State Affairs Committee on February 20, recognizing gold and silver as legal tender and barring forced acceptance unless agreed upon, awaiting full House approval as of February 25. These laws, building on Idaho’s no-capital-gains-tax stance on metals, make it a Goldback-ready contender.

Economic Resilience and Idaho Pride

The Goldback bolsters Idaho’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Coeur d’Alene’s huckleberry stands to Boise’s craft markets. With inflation a worry, its gold backing offers stability, echoing Idaho’s rugged independence. Picture a Goldback series showcasing state icons: the Sawtooths, Chief Joseph, or Silver Valley. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw sound-money fans, enhancing local trade. This is Idaho’s golden moment.

Idaho-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a miner in Boise Basin, recalling the 1862 gold rush that made Idaho City a boomtown.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Chief Joseph leading the Nez Perce, honoring his 1877 resistance through Idaho’s wilds.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Silver Valley’s Bunker Hill Mine, reflecting Idaho’s mining heart in Kellogg.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Sacagawea near Lemhi Pass, celebrating her pivotal role in the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures the Sawtooth Mountains at sunrise, embodying Idaho’s untamed natural beauty.

These designs turn the Goldback into a tribute to Idaho’s history and landscapes, blending value with Gem State pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the West

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Idaho can lead the West. With H177 advancing, SB 502’s tax relief, and a gold-rich past, Idaho is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the House to pass H177 and launch an Idaho Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Sandpoint to Pocatello—proving the Gem State isn’t just a mining legend but a golden innovator. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Idaho golden.